Spring is in the air! As the winter months recede, today we discuss getting your bike ready for spring. Preventative maintenance and prep now will pay dividends as you rack up the miles this spring and summer!
Here are key tips to get your bike ready this spring:
Spring Cleaning
Start by giving your bike a thorough cleaning. Use a mild detergent and water to wash away dirt, grime, and salt residue accumulated during winter rides. Pay attention to hard-to-reach areas like the drivetrain, brakes, and wheel spokes. A clean bike not only looks better but also functions more efficiently. Be mindful of the amount of grease/oil in the drivetrain since after cleaning, it might be necessary to add (a bit) more oil. We’ll cover this in detail in a later article.
Inspect the Frame and Components
Carefully examine the frame, fork, and components for any signs of damage or wear. Check for cracks, dents, or rust that may have developed over the winter. Inspect the brake pads, cables, chain, and gears for wear and tear, and replace any parts that show significant damage or deterioration. Any damage to the frame is important to note, but this is doubly so for carbon framed bikes which have a higher propensity for catastrophic failure.
Where the Rubber Meets the Road
Check the condition of your tires, including tread wear and sidewall damage. Inflate the tires to the recommended pressure specified on the sidewall. Inspect the tire for any embedded objects like glass or thorns that could cause punctures. Consider replacing old or worn-out tires for improved safety and performance. It could be a good time to consider whether Tubeless tires work best for you. See our previous articles on ideal Bike Tire Pressure and Bike Tire Cost to get more clued in on bike tire topics.
Wheel Inspection
Spin each wheel to ensure they rotate smoothly and are properly aligned. Check for loose spokes, wobbles, or damage to the rims. Tighten any loose spokes and true the wheels if necessary. Lubricate the wheel bearings if they feel rough or gritty.
Brake Adjustment
Test the brakes to ensure they are functioning correctly. Check brake pads for wear and adjust or replace them as needed. Make sure the brake levers engage smoothly and that the brake cables are not frayed or damaged. Adjust the brake tension if necessary for optimal stopping power.
Drivetrain Maintenance
Clean and lubricate the chain, cassette, and derailleur pulleys. Remove built-up grime and old lubricant using a degreaser and a brush. Apply a fresh coat of bicycle-specific lubricant to ensure smooth shifting and efficient power transfer. Be careful not to overgrease the drivetrain, as this can lead to even more dirt buildup down the line.
Check the Drive System
Inspect the crankset, chainrings, and pedals for wear and damage. Tighten any loose bolts and replace worn-out components if necessary. Grease pedal threads and ensure they spin freely without any resistance.
Safety Check
Finally, perform a safety check before hitting the road. Test the lights if you have them installed, ensure reflectors are in place and functioning, and verify that your bell or horn is working properly. Adjust your saddle height and handlebar position for comfort and control.
These steps will ensure you start the spring season right and avoid being sidelined during the nicest time of the year! They will also ensure you remain safe and your bike lasts as long as possible.
Do let us know if you have any other tips for getting your bike ready for spring in the comments, or email me at [email protected]
