Spring Bike Maintenance

If your bike has been locked away in the shed for the winter or has only been out for a few winter spins, it’s time to give it a little TLC and a spring clean.

Cleaning Your Bike
A lot of dirt can be collected on a bike after the winter weather. Give your bike a wash down and dry. Remove the wheels and get into all the hard to reach places. After every cycle your bike should be cleaned to avoid rusting.

Clean your brake pads
Small pieces of metal can become embedded in them, which cause a grating noise and impairs the braking performance of your bike, give them a clean to avoid this happening.

Lubricate your chain
Just a few drops is all that is required. If you can see the oil after a couple of revolutions you have too much on. A silver chain should look silver.

Tyre pressure
Pump your tyres before every ride to a minimum of 100psi and a maximum of 120psi. If you are unsure of the tyre pressure it is written on the sidewall of every tyre. Check the condition of tyres for wear and tear. It is important to replace worn tyres to ensure safe riding. Keep everything pointing inwards. The front skewer should always point towards the bottom bracket.

Saddle bag
A saddle bag is a small bag which attaches under your saddle. This bag should contain a repair kit, spare tube, emergency foil blanket and emergency cash, just in case.

Light
The evenings are beginning to get longer. However, it is a good idea to place a light in the front and at the back of your bike. Wear clothing that maximises your visibility to drivers on the road.

Wicklow 200 Ireland's Premier Cycling Challenge