How to do your bike’s spring maintenance
When spring arrives, the dry streets invite you to cycle. After a long winter, it is best to check the condition of the bike before driving off.
A well-maintained bike will remain in good condition for a long time. A maintained bike is safe to drive and will last longer. It is also more comfortable to ride a bike without any banging and rattling.
You can easily carry out basic maintenance yourself. However, if the bike needs bigger repairs, it is a good idea to get professional help.
Insera’s service manager gives some tips for spring bike maintenance.
For spring maintenance, you will need:
- Detergent, a bucket, sponge and cloth
- Bicycle oil
- A screwdriver
- A few spanners
- A few different sized hex keys
Washing a bike
Fairy, for example, can be used as a detergent for maintenance at home. It is not advisable to use a pressure washer, as water may get into the bearings.
Tyres
It is a good idea to check the outer tyre for cracks or brittleness. If cracks are found, check the size information of the old tyre carefully and get new ones from a well-equipped bicycle shop. When you change the outer tyre, it may also be sensible to change the inner tube – especially if this has not been done for many years.
Tip!
A drop of oil can be added to the valve to allow the valve core to move freely.
Chain
Cleaning the chains with a cloth and detergent is a good place to start. The cleanliness of the chains protects the bike's cogs, which will extend the life of your bike by a few years. The chains should then be carefully lubricated with an oil intended for this purpose and allowed to sit for a short time. After this, carefully wipe away the excess oil.
Tip!
You can use an old toothbrush to get into the gaps in the chain.
Brakes
It is a good idea to check the wear of the brake pads and, if necessary, to purchase new ones from a bicycle shop. The brake pads show a sign of wear: if you notice there is no or very little friction material remaining, the brake pads should be replaced. Also remember to clean the rim of the rim brakes and the brake disc of the disc brake.
Tip!
Make sure that no oil gets on the brake surfaces.
Gears
In general, checking the tension of the gear cable takes you a long way, and no major adjustments are needed. This is because the cables stretch over time. The tension can usually be adjusted by hand using the adjusters located on the derailleurs.
Cleanliness and sufficient oiling are the most important factors for the function of the gears. However, excess oil should be wiped off with a cloth.
Screws and nuts
To finish the maintenance, you should check the tightness of all screws and nuts. If you notice any looseness in the wheel hubs, headset or bottom bracket or broken spokes, we recommend that you have these checked/repaired by a qualified maintenance shop.
Remember!
Always remember to do a test drive in the yard after maintenance to ensure the safety and functionality of your bike.
We offer Lumo residents a discount on Insera bicycles. With this benefit, we promote the reduction of our own carbon footprint and encourage sustainable transport in everyday life.