MAINTAINING YOUR BIKE

Maintaining your bike will pay you back with a quality ride, everytime

Once you've found your perfect bike, it's important to keep up the maintenance for optimal performance and to ensure you get the best performance and value from it.

Here are some easy tips to keep your bike in ship-shape condition.

KEEP IT CLEAN

Keeping the drivetrain or chain on your bike clean and lubricated keeps it running smoothly and extends its life.

Get all the dirt you can off the chains, sprockets and chainwheels using rags and an old toothbrush.

After everything is nice and clean, turn the cranks slowly backwards while you pop a drop of oil on the inside of every link on your chain.

PUMP IT UP

Keeping your tyres inflated to the correct pressure - not too soft not too full - is key to a quality ride. A floor pump with a pressure gauge is useful for this.

The rear tyre should have more pressure as it's taking more of your weight.

Ask us if you're not sure what your tyre pressure should be.

STAY DRY

Cleaning your bike regularly after mucky rides is recommended. Use a soft bristle brush and clothes, along with a gentle dishwashing detergent in warm water.

Dry off everything with a towel, pick up and drop your bike from a foot off the ground a few times to get rid of any water still lingering, and ride it for a bit to flick off the rest of the water.

If possible keep your bike inside at all times. If outside, try to cover it with a bike cover or waterproof tarpaulin.