If you are an avid bicyclist, you may have asked yourself at some point in time, ‘how to tune up a bike?’ After all, a bike’s performance is only as good as its proper maintenance. Tuning up a bike requires a certain level of expertise and knowledge, and you should always be aware of the potential risks and safety precautions involved before beginning any maintenance on your bike. In this article, we’ll take you step-by-step through the process of tuning up your bike, so you can be sure your time and efforts in maintaining it are not put to waste.
Whether you’re just getting started in biking or you’re a seasoned pro, here are a few steps suggested to keep your bike in good working order:
Start with a Visual Inspection: Before beginning any repairs, always take a thorough look at your bike to assess any existing damage or potential issues. Take a good look at the tires for any signs of damage such as tears, bulges or air leaks. Check the chain, brakes and cassette for any excessive wear and tear. All of these components should be inspected regularly to make sure your bike is running correctly.
Change the Chain & Sprockets: Changing the chain and sprockets is paramount for the maintenance of your bike. A worn out chain can lead to poor shifting performance and unnecessary bike wear. First, you should inspect the chain and if it appears to be worn out, it’s a good idea to replace both the chain and sprockets. Many bike shops these days have tools that can diagnose the wear of the chain. That being said, it is still best to have a knowledgeable professional check the wear out before you purchase a new chain.
Check the Bolts and Nuts: Whenever you’re tuning up a bike, it’s always important to check if all the bolts and nuts are properly tightened. This simple step is essential to make sure that all your bike components are securely fastened and nothing will come loose during a ride. During your inspection, you should also look out for any signs of rust, as this could affect the strength of the pieces.
Brakes Adjustment: As you would expect, this is one of the most important parts of tuning up your bike. Adjusting your brakes can help improve the function while also ensuring the safety of all riders. Start by cleaning the brakes and then check the brake pads for signs of wear. If the pads are worn, you’ll need to replace them right away. You’ll then need to adjust the tension of the brake cable to ensure the brakes are engaging at the right pressure. Make sure to test your brakes after adjustments to ensure they are working properly.
Lubrication: Proper lubrication is incredibly important for a well running bike. Keeping your bike clean and lubricated will help it run smoother and last longer. Start by cleaning all the parts such as the frame, wheel hubs, chain and derailleur. After cleaning, you can then apply a light lubricant to the necessary components such as the chain, pulleys, and derailleur. The process should be repeated regularly to ensure that your bike is running smoothly.
Wash: After all of the above steps are completed, the bike should be washed to ensure that all parts are free from dirt and debris. It’s important to note that some bike parts and assemblies should not be washed with a hose. Instead, use a soft cloth and warm soapy water to clean the bike.
Those are the most important steps to take when tuning up a bike. While the process may seem daunting at first, these same steps are incredibly easy to accomplish once you get the hang of it, and should only take a few minutes of your time. It is always best to practice safety when attempting to do any maintenance on your bike, and if you feel uncertain or uncomfortable about a particular repair, it’s always best to consult with a professional. Doing regular maintenance on your bike will ensure that it performs at its best and can even help you get the most out of your riding experience.