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Your bike is an investment! Even if you didn’t pay very much for it or it was a gift, keeping it running well is key to having a good time on two wheels.
I’ll be the first to admit that I am not mechanically skilled. I’ve taken a few courses and can get through in a pinch, but for anything more advanced that changing a flat tire and oiling my chain, it goes to the pros.
But there are a few super simple things you can do at home on a regular basis that will help keep your bike happy, working well, and hopefully out of shop except for routine maintenance!
Air your tires up before each ride
Properly inflated tires lead to less flats. Get a good home pump, learn how much air to put in your tires, and do it before each ride!
Lube your chain
Cleaning and lubing your chain helps make sure you can shift between gears easily, climb hills, and have a more pleasant bike ride. Clean, well-lubed parts last longer too. I like an all-season lube, but depending on where you live, you may want a specific formula for wet or dry seasons. Here’s a great little video on how to properly lube your chain (fast forward to 10:00 on the video.)
Wash your bike!
Give it a good scrub - especially if you’ve been playing in the dust, mud, or riding in th rain. Dirt and road grime can build up in the crevices and small parts, leading to corrosion and gross stuff. If I have time, I’ll give my bike a full wash & detail with these Pedro’s Pro Brush Tools. If I’m in a hurry, this Muc-Off Cleaner sprays on and wipes off quickly!
Check your bolts
Using an Allen key (or multi-tool), check to all your bolts on your bike to make sure they’re tight. This will prevent anything from slipping or coming loose during your ride.