Basic Bicycle Maintenance Tips submitted by Jason Klock Now that the cycling season is ending for many, it is a great time to take care of basic maintenance that you may have put off. Also, since most shops aren't as busy after Christmas, if you are looking to make changes, they can spend more time with you. Here are some items we recommend you check: If your bike has regular cable shifting, it is a good idea to check cable condition. The common areas that cables start to fray are at the brake/shift lever and the bottom bracket guide (if external, routing, you can visually check under the bottom bracket). Over the past two years, we have had a couple of members break cables to the rear derailler while on rides - not a good time. If your bike has electronic shifting, Sram uses a watch battery in each brake/shift lever. It is recommended to replace the batteries once a year, so now is a good time. Also, Sram uses DOT brake fluid, they recommend flushing the system once a year to remove water since it is hydroscopic. Shimano uses mineral oil, so no need. However, if you have gone many years and miles, a good idea to check. Not good to have no brakes as one member found. Check your chain for wear. It is very difficult to get some chains/cassettes right now. Particularly 11 speed. If you have 2000 miles or less on the chain - you might still get away with just replacing the chain, more than that, probably also a cassette. Take the time to really clean the frame. DO NOT WASH THE BIKE USING A HOSE!!! Water under pressure can get into the sealed bearings of the bottom bracket and headset. IT WILL DO DAMAGE. Use a sponge and dry with rags or towel. Now is a good time to carefully look at the frame for cracks in the paint or other issues. If at all in question, see your shop. Check for play in your headset. You should not feel movement if you apply the front brake and try to roll the bike back and forth. The handlebars should turn smoothly when you hold the bike off the floor and tilt the frame left or right. If too tight, it will cause the headset to wear out faster. Check your tires for wear and damage. Again, not all tires are easy to get right now. If you are using tubeless, and haven't added sealant recently, it is a good time to do it. Just make sure you rotate the tires enough to move it all through the tire. Also, if you can, store the bike off the concrete floor. The moisture that comes through the concrete can shorten the life of the tires. OUR LOCAL BIKE SHOPS OFFER DIFFERENT LEVELS OF TUNE-UPS. Many will do a quick look and recommend what level to do. PLEASE SUPPORT THEM. Many of our members use these bicycle shops.
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