A bicycle is a means of transportation, it has moving parts. Just like any mechanical equipment, it needs regular maintenance to keep it running so that you can get a smooth and safe ride and extend its service life. If the bicycle is not well maintained, you will have to work harder while riding, and mechanical failure may cause crashes and injuries. Here are some basic lessons about what you should do to keep your bike in good working order and when you should do it.

Every ride

ABC quick check

Before each ride, you should perform an ABC quick check. With practice, it will only take a few seconds to identify whether your bike has any problems that might endanger your safety. Mnemonic ABC is easy to remember and helps you focus on critical safety tasks.

l "A" stands for inflation-press your thumb into the rubber of the tire to verify that the tire is secure and properly inflated. If you can press your fingers into the tire, you should check the recommended pressure on the sidewall and use an air pump to inflate it.

l "B" is used for braking-squeeze the two brake levers to make sure they don't bottom out and they will stop the bike when you need it. If they bottom out, you may need to replace the brake pads or adjust the brake cable.

l "C" stands for chain-rotate the pedal to ensure that the chain can move freely and is lubricated. If the chain is rusty or dry, add some lubricant. "C" can also refer to the crank. To check the crank, grab the pedal crank and try to shake it from side to side. If there is any movement, take the bicycle to the bicycle shop as soon as possible to tighten or replace the bottom bracket.

l Quick check-for quick release, if your bike has them. Make sure that the front and rear wheels are correctly positioned in the claws of the frame, and the quick release level is tight, not soft. If it is, open the lever, turn it clockwise a few times, and then press it back.

Weekly maintenance and inflation

tire

The tires are under pressure, and most tires lose a bit of air through normal riding or just sitting-usually 10-20 po unds in a week. Although the initial small loss may still keep the tire within the recommended range, it is a good idea to develop a habit of inflating so that it does not become too low. For example, if the recommended inflation of a tire is 40-65 pounds, and you start at a higher level, losing 10 pounds will still keep the tire within the recommended range, but unless you fill it up, you will lose more Lower than the recommended inflation rate, enough to have a significant impact on your riding. There are two reasons for inflating a bicycle tire to the recommended pressure:

l Tire puncture risk-if you encounter curbs or bumps on the road and the tire is under-inflated, the spokes on the rim may press on the tube, causing the two holes and the tire to leak air.

l Easier to ride-properly inflated tires will roll better and save effort so you can fly on the road!

Monthly maintenance

Lubricating oil chain

Among all the moving parts of a bicycle, the chain that needs the most attention is the chain. It is exposed to various elements and has dozens of moving parts that need to be lubricated. At least once a month, you should put some lubricant on each roller, rotate the crank to allow the lubricant to settle, and then wipe off the excess. If you are trapped by rain or snow, when you get home, be sure to wipe off the moisture and apply more lubricant.

Annual maintenance

Tuning

Bicycle tuning is a way to make the bike perform at its best. Moving parts will rust and wear out frequently. The following is a list of typical procedures that should be checked regularly:

l Adjust the bearings in the hub, bottom bracket and earphones

l Real wheels, front and rear

l Adjust gear shifts and brakes, including centering, front and rear

l Lubricate all pivot points, cables and chains

l Light cleaning

l Pneumatic tire

With regular attention, your bike will provide you with years of entertainment, transportation and joy