Bike Maintenance - what to do and how to it - 3rd Feb at 7pm

Join us at the Club House for an evening of friendly instruction by Club Member Stephen Webb, who is a professional bike mechanic at Leisure Lakes Bikes 01234 230741

Apart from the wonderful satisfaction of knowing what to do, to maintain your bike, safety is the primary reason for bicycle maintenance.

Regular checks ensure brakes, tyres, gears, and other components function correctly, preventing accidents caused by mechanical failure, loose parts, or worn-out components. Riding an unsafe bike increases the risk of injury and damage.




Library picture by kind permission of VistaCreate


Pre-Ride Inspection (ABCs):
Start every ride with a quick check of the Air, Brakes, and Chain. Ensure tires are properly inflated (check pressure on the tire sidewall), brakes engage smoothly without pulling to the grip, and the chain runs freely with no dry or stiff links.

Regular Cleaning and Lubrication:
Clean your bike monthly—or more often if riding in wet or muddy conditions—using a damp rag, brush, and mild soap. Focus on the drivetrain (chain, cassette, derailleurs). After cleaning, apply bike-specific lube: use wet lube for rain or damp conditions, dry lube for dry, dusty environments. Always wipe off excess lube to prevent dirt buildup.

Bolt and Component Checks:
Periodically check all bolts (crank arms, seatpost, stem, handlebars) for tightness using a hex key. Do not over-tighten—follow torque specs from your bike’s manual. Inspect brake pads, cables, and housing for wear or fraying; replace if damaged.

Tyre and Wheel Care:
Check tyres for cuts, wear, or embedded debris. Replace if tread is worn or cracks appear. Spin wheels to check for wobbles—this may indicate a need for truing. For mountain bikes, test suspension function.

Professional Maintenance:
Even with regular care, have your bike professionally tuned at least once a year. A mechanic can inspect bearings (headset, bottom bracket, hubs), drivetrain wear, and perform complex tasks like brake bleeding or gear adjustments.

Essential Tools:
Keep a basic toolkit handy: hex keys, tyre levers, pump, chain checker, clean rags, degreaser, and chain lube. Consider investing in a bike repair stand for easier access.