Have you ever wondered how to properly maintain your bicycle in between tune ups? Here's our top 5 things you can do at home to keep your bike rolling in tip-top shape!
1. Yearly Tune Ups
We suggest taking your bike in to your local mechanic at the start of every season for a tune up. Having a professional look your bike over will ensure there's no underlying mechanical issues that willow occur while riding. A yearly tune up will result in a ton of time, money, and frustration saved in the long run.
2. Clean Your Bike
Dirt and grime from the road will naturally accumulate on your bicycle through everyday riding. Keeping your bike clean protects the frame and components from premature corrosion and wear. A simple wipe down every 3-4 week with a damp cloth and cleaning solutions will do wonders for the health of your bicycle, and keep it looking stylish! We suggest a solution of watered down Simple Green cleaner - simply spray your bike down, and wipe it with a cloth or cut up old t-shirt.
3. Keep Your Tires Pumped
Tires will naturally lose pressure over time. And riding on under-inflated tires can lead to pinched inner-tubes, as well as premature wear on your tires and rims. If you're cycling regularly, we suggest topping off your tires once a week. If you don't have a pump at home, your most local shops will have a pump that's available for public use. Just be sure to ask first!
4. Keep Your Chain Clean
The chain is the most important component of your bike. A healthy chain leads to a smooth and quiet ride. It's important to keep your chain clean, and lubricated, especially if you're riding in the rain. We suggest using a Teflon based chain lube once every 2-3 weeks.
5. Ask for help!
At Brooklyn Bicycle, we're always available to provide support regarding any technical questions you might have about your bike. Our network of over 500 partner shops across the country also ensures you'll have the support you need no matter the issue. So if you're experiencing an issue with your bike, reach out to us, and we're help you work towards a solution.