7 Bicycle Maintenance Tips

Keep your bike in tiptop shape and ride safe!

- 

Riding a bike is great fun, but owning one requires regular maintenance. If you want to avoid running to the bike shop every time something comes up, you will need at least a basic understanding of bicycle maintenance.

Joe Blegen hasn't owned a car in 14 years, relying solely on two wheels for his daily commutes. We caught up with Joe in his classroom where he teaches high school students valuable lessons on bicycle maintenance.

PRERIDE CHECKLIST, OR "ABC"

Before every ride, go through the ABC checklist.

A- Air. Check the air pressure in your tires and adjust as needed. Check with a handheld gauge or use the gauge on the floor pump.

B - Brakes. With the bike tires on the ground, roll it forward and squeeze both brake levers-first the front and then the rear. There should be no slipping or squeaking. The brake lever should feel firm and responsive.

C - Chain. With the rear tire off the ground, check that the derailleur operates both up and down the gears and the chain is running smoothly.

CHECK THE CHAIN FOR WEAR

Depending on the riding conditions, a typical multispeed chain needs to be replaced every 1,000 to 1,500 miles. A chain-wear measuring tool is inexpensive and useful for keeping track of your chain's condition.