Bike Maintenance |
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Basics of Bike Maintenance
As the day length varies throughout the year, we need to adapt our bikes, and equipment to suit the weather conditions that we are bound to come across for the coming months.
These are a few quick pointers and tips of how to prepare and maintain your bike over the year.
This should be done in between services, which we advise to have done after every 2500km (approximately).
Tyres
Washing your bike
Where to start? We usually recommend starting at the top, but if you’re unsure, check out our quick video below, from our friends in Bike7.
What products to use? We use a range of products, and most people like to get a kit with all the cleaners in the one box at the beginning, and then go from there as they use the products.
How often should you wash your bike? Approximately once per week if you are cycling about 3/4 days a week. With the weather conditions in the Autumn/Winter you will need to pay particular attention to the bottom bracket/crank area to prevent and build up of grit/salt.
Chain Maintenance
As you wash your bike, pay close attention to your chain, ensuring all the dirt/salt from the road is washed away frequently.
Oil your chain regularly using a quality oil that is specific for chains.
Check for wear/damage on your chain, and get it changed at the first sign of trouble to avoid any breaks or unnecessary wear to corresponding components. We recommend checking your chain after 2000 km.
Accessories
Mudguards: Not always the most attractive attachment on a bike, but can save time on washing your cycling kit after a couple of hours on the bike, when used on wet days.
Lights: These are probably the most essential accessory at this time of the year, always have a rear light at very least. There is such a choice out there at the minute; there is a type that is suitable for every person/bike/budget. Decide between battery operated or rechargeable, and whether you would like to be seen or see where you are going. Ask at your local bike shop, if you're unsure, to help you make that decision.
Hi-Vis Jackets: These are very important also, Be Safe, Be Seen. If you prefer a more fitted option, check out the range in your local bike shop. They will usually have various options available.
Helmets: The essential part of every cycling kit. Comfort is key if you are going to be cycling regularly. Give time to consider the fit, the safety rating, whether they are suitable for the terrain you are going to be on (a mountain biker might require face protection also).
Saddle Bag: Used usually as an emergency kit with your spare tube, tyre levers, pump, and also a place to keep a few euros in case of an emergency (e.g. food/drink/phone call).
And last, but most important, Road Safety
We at RAYC SPORTS appreciate your continued support and look forward to seeing you all out on the bike, in the future.
Ray & Tina.
As the day length varies throughout the year, we need to adapt our bikes, and equipment to suit the weather conditions that we are bound to come across for the coming months.
These are a few quick pointers and tips of how to prepare and maintain your bike over the year.
This should be done in between services, which we advise to have done after every 2500km (approximately).
Tyres
- Know your pressure, check regularly. The pressure varies from bike to bike, so ensure you know the correct pressure and check weekly, and pump accordingly - see below for examples of pumps, and how to use.
- Surface: Is your tyre worn and in need of replacing? Check this as you do your pressure check.
- Damage: Are there any cracks/splits in your tyre that could cause a puncture? Know what to look out for.
Washing your bike
Where to start? We usually recommend starting at the top, but if you’re unsure, check out our quick video below, from our friends in Bike7.
What products to use? We use a range of products, and most people like to get a kit with all the cleaners in the one box at the beginning, and then go from there as they use the products.
How often should you wash your bike? Approximately once per week if you are cycling about 3/4 days a week. With the weather conditions in the Autumn/Winter you will need to pay particular attention to the bottom bracket/crank area to prevent and build up of grit/salt.
Chain Maintenance
As you wash your bike, pay close attention to your chain, ensuring all the dirt/salt from the road is washed away frequently.
Oil your chain regularly using a quality oil that is specific for chains.
Check for wear/damage on your chain, and get it changed at the first sign of trouble to avoid any breaks or unnecessary wear to corresponding components. We recommend checking your chain after 2000 km.
Accessories
Mudguards: Not always the most attractive attachment on a bike, but can save time on washing your cycling kit after a couple of hours on the bike, when used on wet days.
Lights: These are probably the most essential accessory at this time of the year, always have a rear light at very least. There is such a choice out there at the minute; there is a type that is suitable for every person/bike/budget. Decide between battery operated or rechargeable, and whether you would like to be seen or see where you are going. Ask at your local bike shop, if you're unsure, to help you make that decision.
Hi-Vis Jackets: These are very important also, Be Safe, Be Seen. If you prefer a more fitted option, check out the range in your local bike shop. They will usually have various options available.
Helmets: The essential part of every cycling kit. Comfort is key if you are going to be cycling regularly. Give time to consider the fit, the safety rating, whether they are suitable for the terrain you are going to be on (a mountain biker might require face protection also).
Saddle Bag: Used usually as an emergency kit with your spare tube, tyre levers, pump, and also a place to keep a few euros in case of an emergency (e.g. food/drink/phone call).
And last, but most important, Road Safety
- Be aware of motorists at all times, if you can, make eye contact, and use your hand signals.
- Train in pairs or small groups, safety in numbers (and good for motivation too).
- Let family or colleagues know your route when heading off training, and also your ETA, so they can keep an eye out for your safe return. If you use Garmin or similar, check your device out to see if live tracking is an option.
- Even in an extreme circumstance where a motorist has made a mistake, and you have been forced into a dangerous situation, try to remain calm and don’t put yourself in further danger. When it’s a bike V’s a car, usually the car will win out. Report any/all serious incidents to the police.
We at RAYC SPORTS appreciate your continued support and look forward to seeing you all out on the bike, in the future.
Ray & Tina.
Bike Wash Video from our friends at Bike7
There are some essential tools for doing basic repairs - these are the tyre levers we prefer to use..........
The type of pump we use at home or in the workshop is a track pump, with a guage. Know your bike's tyre pressure (usually written on the side wall of the tyre for a reference)
Having a mini pump with you while out cycling is a benefit. If you need to get home during a spin, and need to inflate a tube, these are the ideal option. This will be more difficult than using a track pump, but are still useful in an emergency.
Until I have time to get Ray to record a demonstration of puncture repair or tube replacement, I have added this helpful video from Park Tools.
