If you are a frequent rider, the last thing you want is to have your bike break down on the road. However, this might happen if you don’t take care of it properly. Follow these tips to ensure that your bike parts last long and the bike continues to perform as it should:
Cleaning the Chain
The chain is the central part of your bike that connects the pedals to the rear wheel. It’s subjected to a lot of wear and tear, which means it needs to be cleaned and lubricated regularly.
If you don’t clean out your chain regularly, dirt will build up inside it, causing friction and reducing its lifespan.
It would be best to clean the outside of your chain with an old rag or paper towel after each ride (or whenever necessary). Cleaning tools usually have brushes or bristles to help dislodge dirt from between links in your chain while they spin freely – so they’re great for getting into all those little nooks where dust collects.
Lubrication
A lubricant is an essential tool for prolonging the life of your bike’s chain, as it helps protect against rust and wear. You should find one specifically designed for bicycles since the machines are different from those used in cars. Use a lubricant to protect the chain. You should also ensure that you buy an easy lubricant to clean off, as this will prevent harmful residue buildup on your bike parts. Finally, look for one that can be applied easily with minimal effort and time because you may need to reapply it every few weeks or months if you ride often.
Proper Storage
Bikes should be stored in a dry, cool place with as little exposure to heat sources as possible. If you can’t keep your bike indoors, there are some things that you can do to protect it from the elements. First, ensure that when you park your bike outside, it is on an even surface and has a good support base. Then make sure that the tires are properly inflated—you don’t want them sitting flat because this will cause damage over time. Finally, if possible, use a bike rack or chain lock to secure your bicycle so that no one can steal it.
Drivetrain and Derailleur Maintenance
To ensure the long life of your drivetrain, you should take care of it by performing regular maintenance. The most common place to start is with the chain:
- Wash and lubricate your chain regularly. If you need help remembering this, buy a product that contains both cleaning fluid and lubricant all in one bottle. The cleaner will do what it says on the label, while the lube will keep everything running smoothly for years to come.
- Clean off any grime or dirt from around where things might rub together like between cogs with a cloth or paper towel. This is especially important if you use wet lube; otherwise, it can get trapped in places where it doesn’t belong—and cause problems as soon as you ride again!
- When adjusting derailleurs, use an Allen wrench or screwdriver, depending on how you are accommodated. For example: if using an Allen wrench is best practice, then use that method instead; however, if screwdrivers are required, then go ahead and try those instead, too
If you want your bike to last long, you need to be sure it’s maintained in the best possible way. The maintenance of your bicycle includes regular cleaning, lubrication and adjustment, which will ensure that the performance and longevity of your bike are minimised.