How To Maintain Your Bike Between Bicycle Tune-Ups

It is recommended that bicycles have routine tune-ups to keep them operating properly, help extend their lifespan and minimize the number of bicycle repairs that your bike will need. The frequency in which you should have a tune-up done varies based on the exact type and brand of bike you have, the frequency in which you ride, and the conditions in which you ride. Regardless of how frequently your bike needs tune-ups, there are a few things you should do to help maintain your bike between tune-ups. Here are a list of those things. 

Lubricating the Moving Parts

One of the things that you should be doing to your bike between tune-ups is lubricating the moving parts on your bike, including the brakes, drivetrain and shifting system. Lubricating these parts helps to minimize friction that can cause them to wear out prematurely. It also helps the parts to move as smoothly as possible, which helps your ride to be a bit smoother. When you are lubricating, be sure to check for rust. If rust is present, be sure to remove it before lubricating the parts. Always read your owners manual to find out what type of lubricant is recommended for your bike. 

Checking and Tightening the Nuts and Bolts

As you ride your bicycle, the nuts and bolts found on the bike may loosen. This is more likely to happen if you are riding on rocky or hilly terrain. While the nuts and bolts are checked and tightened during a bicycle tune-up, this is also something you should be doing regularly on your own. After long rides, take the time to check the nuts and bolts and tighten them as needed. Loose nuts and bolts can impact the comfort of your bike while your ride and reduce the range of motion of the bike's frame. 

Carefully Cleaning Your Bike

The last way you should be properly maintaining your bike between tune-ups is by carefully and properly cleaning your bike. Mud and dirt can buildup on your bike and on the parts. This can cause the parts to deteriorate faster and can impact the drivetrain of the bike. By a proper bike cleaning product and clean your bike routinely to remove this build up. Do not use soap and water as it can cause your bike to rust. 

Maintaining your bike between tune-ups does not prolong the length of time you can and should go between tune-ups. But it can help to keep your bicycle running smoothly and efficiently between these tune-ups. If your bike is in need of a tune-up, contact a bicycle repair shop such as Sarasota Cyclery Inc today to schedule an appointment for yours.