Take Care Of Your Ride, It Will Take Care Of You!

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Your bicycle requires regular maintenance to keep it in prime condition. There are many ways in which you can do maintenance at home. Here are some pointers

Bicycle Maintenance at Home | Bike Maintenance - Firefox Bikes

#GoBiking
Firefox Bikes
28 Sep 2022

Your bicycle requires regular maintenance to keep it in prime condition. Today, there are many dealerships and bicycle stores that will not only clean and wash the bike but will do over all maintenance as well. However, you don't need to spend money on this. There are many ways in which you can do the maintenance at home itself. We have listed a few basic pointers below.

  • Wash Your Bike:- Cleaning and washing your bike regularly prolongs the life of your bike. All you need is a bucket of simple soapy water, an old piece of cloth and an old toothbrush you will be recycling too! The toothbrush is for the nooks and crannies of the chain and gear set. However, a proper degreasing solution is recommended every few months for the chain and gear shift to remove the grit and grime.
  • Constant Check on Brake Pads:- > You can buy new brake pads from almost any dealership and most of them will replace the pads for you! However, if you have the patience, Allen keys and an internet connection and you can do it yourself at home. Remember, if you can't see the grooves on the pads, the brake pads might as well not be there! 
  • Lubricate. Regularly lubricate!:- Much like you always keep the engine of your care/bike always lubricated – your cycle needs it too! You can buy a bottle of bicycle-specific lubricant from a dealership or online. Use it sparingly on any part where metal grinds against metal – definitely the chain and gear set. However, there is no point lubricating dirty chains. Always clean the chain first!
  • Proper Tyre Pressure:- If your tyres have less air pressure than required, they are more prone to punctures. If you aren't sure what the required pressure is, check along the sides of the tyre, there will be a number with psi written after it. When you pump your tyres, you can use a pressure gauge to make sure you fill the right amount. Old school squeeze the tyre to get a feel of how inflated it is. Never over pressure your tyres!
  • Squeaky Brakes:- Aside from hurting your ears and those around you, squeaky brakes are a hazard while riding. This is because, the squeaky sound implies that your brakes are dirty, or the wheel rims are dirty, and this reduces the efficiency of your brakes. Clean them out regularly and you should be good to go. If the problem persists, have your brakes checked by a professional.

Follow these basic steps regularly and you will see a considerable improvement in your performance while riding! But remember, if you use your bikes regularly, then you will have to increase the level of maintenance and dedication to your ride!

Stay tuned for more tips!