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If you are like us, you are looking to get your bike in tip-top mechanical condition before you start racking up those first Spring miles. And since the first day of Spring was back on March 19th, time is just about out, and you are really needing to get that bike maintenance done... like yesterday. Regardless of when you decide to do your bike maintenance, before, during, or after riding season, you should make sure you have a plan to do your tune up annually.
In our first article, "Bike Wash: Get Your Bike Ready for Riding Season", we introduced the first phase of our bike maintenance plan, by way of Calvin Jones at Park Tools. In our second article, "Bike Inspection: Get Your Bike Ready for Riding Season", we moved on to the second phase of our bike maintenance plan by providing our take on the M check bike inspection. Here we are going to jump to the real reason for this series... the bike maintenance. Although we typically recommend doing your bike maintenance pre-season, namely in the spring, it is totally up to you as to what is best for you... but whenever it is that you do it, just be consistent.
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It should come as no surprise to hear that the frequency, and the type of bike maintenance that is needed depends on many factors... the bike material, the bike components, the weather where you ride, the seasonal mileage you accumulate, the type of riding you do... just to name a few. Therefore, the amount, and type, of maintenance that a bike will need can, and will, vary greatly.
So exactly what bike maintenance should you be doing?
We are glad you asked.
Here is our take on your options for getting your annual bike maintenance.
But first, let us remind you... if you are ever in doubt as to what bike maintenance you might need, seek the services of a professional mechanic.
You have a few bike maintenance options
Here is how we see your bike maintenance options...
Option 1: You can never go wrong with a complete bike overhaul.
This involves a more extensive and thorough process that includes a complete disassembly of the bike, cleaning of all components, inspection, replacement of worn parts, re-assembly and a full tune. This type of bike maintenance typically includes a review of all bearing systems, and if necessary, replacement. Most LBS will include all new cables and housing as part of this service, but you will pay for all other replacement parts.
Frequency: recommended every 3 years - very expensive
Option 2: You also get very good bike maintenance coverage with a deluxe/full bike tune up.
The major difference here is that it does not involve a complete disassembly of the bike. This bike maintenance does include cleaning of components, inspection, replacement of worn parts, and full tune, just as it done for an overhaul. This type of bike maintenance typically does not include a review of all bearing systems (mainly since there is much less disassembly involved), so you should check first if you believe you are in need of specific bearing systems. As with an overhaul, most LBS will include all new cables and housing as part of the cost, but again, you will pay for all other replacement parts.
Frequency: recommended every 2 years - not quite as costly
Option 3: You should always be doing some minimal level of annual bike maintenance.
This bike maintenance plan focuses more around the findings from a thorough bike inspection (see part 2 of this blog series Bike Inspection: Get Read for Riding Season). In addition to addressing the findings from your inspection, we also recommend that you take the time to review and maintain the most common problem areas of any bicycle. In short, we see this option as the interim bike maintenance plan that you should follow in those in-between years since your last bike overhaul, or your last full bike tune up.
Frequency: recommended every year
So if you are still with us at this point, and find yourself leaning towards the Option 3 annual bike maintenance plan, then for sure read on. Here we will share with you our recommendations on the specific bike maintenance items that we consider essential in order to keep your bike ready for riding all season long. We will leave it to you as to whether you perform these tasks yourself, or ultimately hand this off to your local bike shop. For those of you who are considering doing the work yourself, we have also provided a list of the tools that we use for each of the maintenance tasks.
So let's dive in to take a look at the bike maintenance items we typically do to keep our bikes rolling right.
Our 12 Point Bike Maintenance Plan
Here is our list of bike maintenance items that we tackle, or at least we inspect with the intent to tackle, every riding season. We call these items our "Things we always do" list. In reality, they are nothing more than the repairs and tweaks that we perform to address each of the main problem areas on any bicycle. Now, every mechanic and shop will have their own list, be it a 10 point list, a 6 point list, or some other number. No matter the number, it comes down to how the problem areas of a bike are grouped and represented. But make no mistake about it, however you count or categorize the problem areas, the problem areas are the problem areas... they don't change. They are real and they need to be maintained. We simply see 12 specific areas of the bike that will need attention because at some point or another, these 12 items will require maintenance.
So have yourself a read through these bike maintenance items. Take the time to review each of the 12 sections, and then give that specific area of your bike the needed attention. Make sure that you look at each of the 12 problem areas as they relate to your bike. This will help you get your bike operating at its peak performance.
Check frame & Torque bolts
Tools & Supplies:
ATD 1.2 Adjustable Torque Driver Competitive Cyclist | Amazon
AWS-1 3-Way Hex Wrench (4mm/5mm/6mm) Competitive Cyclist | Amazon
We always inspect for cracks, dents, or damage, including minor issues like paint chips or exposed metal. These signs could indicate structural compromise leading to metal fatigue. Inspect on a clean bike for clarity. Investigate any issues thoroughly and seek professional advice if unsure. Additionally, regularly tighten bolts for safety; they're a critical part of your bike's integrity.
Replace Tires/Tubes/Sealant
Tools & Supplies:
TL-4.2 2 Carded Tire Lever Set Competitive Cyclist | Amazon
Tires Road 700c Competitive Cyclist | Amazon
Tires MTB 29 x 2.4 Competitive Cyclist | Amazon
Tubes 700c Competitive Cyclist | Amazon
Stan's NoTubes Tire Sealant Competitive Cyclist | Amazon
VC-1 Valve Core Remover Competitive Cyclist | Amazon
Presta Valve Core Competitive Cyclist | Amazon
Presta Tubeless valve stems Competitive Cyclist | Amazon
Topeak Joe Blow Sport III High Pressure Floor Pump Competitive Cyclist | Amazon
Inspect tires for wear, flat spots, exposed threads, and holes. Dry rubber is as detrimental as tread wear. Road bike tires last around 4,000 miles but may vary. Our general rule is... when in doubt, replace the tires. On mountain bikes, when your knobs are worn down, your traction suffers and your chance of puncture goes up. Don't forget that mountain bike tire sidewalls are far thinner than road bike tires. so be sure to carefully check them. Tube setups should last a few seasons, but as a general rule, we typically replace tubes every time we replace the tires. For tubeless setups, we recommend refreshing sealant annually by cleaning rim and valve cores. As a side note, it is not uncommon that we actually end up replacing the valve cores when we refresh the sealant as getting dried sealant out is sometimes just too difficult.
Replace cables (and housing)
Tools & Supplies:
Shimano Standard Brake Cable Set MTB & Road Competitive Cyclist | Amazon (includes crimps and ferrules)
Shimano PTFE Road Shift Cable and Housing Set Competitive Cyclist | Amazon (includes crimps and ferrules)
Shimano MTB Optislick Shift Cable and Housing Set Competitive Cyclist | Amazon
CN-10 Professional Cable &Housing Cutter Competitive Cyclist | Amazon
AWS-1 3-Way Hex Wrench (4mm/5mm/6mm) Competitive Cyclist | Amazon
Optional:
IR-1.3 Internal Cable Routing Kit Competitive Cyclist | Amazon
For cable-activated shifting and braking systems, replace brake cables yearly and shift cables every other year unless wear indicates sooner. Housing replacement is typically every other year. If we detect any sluggish shifting, or find any added brake lever resistance, we won't hesitate to replace both the cable and the housing. It just comes down to how well the system is functioning. Be sure to stress new cables by tensioning them during setup. Don't overlook dropper post cable. Since it is typically internally routed, seek professional help for internal routing if unsure.
Hydraulic brake bleed
Tools & Supplies:
AWS-1 3-Way Hex Wrench (4mm/5mm/6mm) Competitive Cyclist | Amazon
NP-6 Needle-nose pliers Competitive Cyclist | Amazon
BKM-1.2 Bleed Kit - Mineral oil Competitive Cyclist | Amazon
BKD-1.2 Bleed Kit - DOT fluid Competitive Cyclist | Amazon
As a general rule, we "bleed" hydraulic systems annually to remove any air bubbles in the system. Signs of needing a "bleed" include soft or inconsistent brake feel, longer lever throw, or reduced braking power. Check for fluid leaks regularly. We typically only do a complete fluid "flush" every 2 to 3 years, but each season we do "bleed" our brakes to regularly inspect fluid quality. Clear fluid indicates no need for a flush, while discoloration is a sign of contamination... and tells you it's time for a complete "flush".
Important note: Remember, there are two types of hydraulic fluids used in bicycle disc braking systems: DOT fluid vs. mineral oil. It is critical to know which fluid your system uses. Never mix these types of fluids on your bike. Likewise, your should never mix your brake bleed kits - use a dedicated kit for DOT fluid, and a separate dedicated kit for mineral oil.
Replace the chain
Tools & Supplies:
CC-3.2 Chain Wear Indicator Competitive Cyclist | Amazon
CT-3.3 Chain tool Competitive Cyclist | Amazon
CL-1 Synthetic Blend Chain Lube Bottle (4 oz) Competitive Cyclist | Amazon
We typically seek to replace chains at the start of each season, followed by a drivetrain tune up. But the reality is that replacement frequency depends on he measured wear. As a general rule, anything measuring less than 0.5% wear is considered within tolerance. Chain replacement is a relatively cost-effective item as compared to costs for replacing cassettes and chainrings due to accelerated wear. So we tend to operate on a tighter tolerance. Keeping the chain clean and lubricated is the best way to prevent excessive wear. Choose a chain brand that matches your drivetrain components (SRAM, Shimano, Campagnolo). KMC chains offer good compatibility across brands and perform well without abnormal wear. Regular chain maintenance is essential for optimal drivetrain performance.
Tune the drivetrain
Tools & Supplies:
AWS-1 3-Way Hex Wrench (4mm/5mm/6mm) Competitive Cyclist | Amazon
NP-6 Needle-nose pliers Competitive Cyclist | Amazon
DSD-2 Derailleur Screwdriver - 2 JIS Competitive Cyclist | Amazon
Optional:
BT-2 Fourth Hand Cable Stretcher (locking ratchet) Competitive Cyclist | Amazon
If you've replaced cables, housings, or the chain, it's also time to tune your drivetrain. Even if you haven't replaced any parts, a periodic spring shifting tune up is a smart move. Make sure to remove all the dirt, grime, dust, and grit that gets caked-on to your cassette cogs, chainring teeth, chain, and derailleur pulley wheels. Clean your drive train thoroughly before you tune it... and re-lube it once it is dry. The tuning effort will prove far easier.
Replace the brake pads
Tools & Supplies:
Rim Brake pads Competitive Cyclist | Amazon
Disc Brake pads Competitive Cyclist | Amazon
Disc brake rotor Competitive Cyclist | Amazon
SD-SET - Set of 4 Screwdrivers Competitive Cyclist | Amazon
PP-12 Piston Press Competitive Cyclist | Amazon
AWS-1 3-Way Hex Wrench (4mm/5mm/6mm) Competitive Cyclist | Amazon
NP-6 Needle-nose pliers Competitive Cyclist | Amazon
Optional:
A plastic scrubbing pad
Rubbing alcohol.
For rim brakes, we inspect and replace pads every other year or as wear dictates. We clean pads with a rag, then sand uneven spots, and finish with rubbing alcohol for a final clean. For disc brakes, we replace pads and rotors as needed, typically we replace pads every other year. Hydraulic calipers adjust to pad thickness, extending their lifespan. We clean disc systems more regularly, using rubbing alcohol on pads and rotors. Wear latex gloves to prevent contaminating pads and rotors with skin oils. Regular maintenance ensures optimal brake performance and longevity.
Replace Handlebars Tape/grips
Tools & Supplies:
Easton Pinline Logo Bar Tape Competitive Cyclist | Amazon
AWS-1 3-Way Hex Wrench (4mm/5mm/6mm) Competitive Cyclist | Amazon
NP-6 Needle-nose pliers Competitive Cyclist | Amazon
Scissors
Electrical tape
Optional:
A clean rag
Rubbing alcohol.
If you’ve already gone ahead with replacing your shift and brake housings, you are aware that you had to first remove your handlebar tape to replace all the housing. And since you will have to re-wrap your handlebar tape again anyway, we always recommend replacement of the bar tape as well. By all means, feel free to clean your handlebar tape to get out all the sweat that they have absorbed. But if you've already removed it, it is just as simple to re-wrap your bars with new tape as it is to re-wrap the original tape.
If you replaced shift and brake housings, you had to remove the handlebar tape. We recommend replacing the bar tape when re-wrapping. If not replacing the bar tape, we at least recommend cleaning any adhesive residue with rubbing alcohol to improve grip comfort. It would not hurt to refresh the electrical tape at this time. For mountain bikes, we recommend replacing grips every 2 to 3 seasons or when tackiness or missing grip ribs are felt. Refreshing grips is really based more on personal preference. It's your call.
Set Suspension SAG
Tools & Supplies:
AWS-1 3-Way Hex Wrench (4mm/5mm/6mm) Competitive Cyclist | Amazon
Shock Pump Competitive Cyclist | Amazon
Fork & Suspension lube Competitive Cyclist | Amazon
Tape Measure
Check suspension pressure, ensuring smooth compression and rebound without noise. Test lockouts and dampers for proper function and noticeable differences. Inspect stanchions for scratches that may affect operation. Check wiper seals for flexibility and lubricate with fork oil. Set suspension SAG (a.k.a: "preload" or "spring"), accounting for rider weight plus all normal gear. Refer to manufacturer's SAG chart for proper setup. We do recommend periodically having your local bike shop disassemble, inspect, and clean suspension components. While manufacturers do spell out this frequency, we suggest you do this based on the feel during riding. And we recommend a complete suspension tune if you notice changes in handling. Keeping your suspension properly maintained ensures its best performance and longevity.
True wheels
Tools & Supplies:
TS-2.3 Truing Stand Competitive Cyclist | Amazon
TSB-2.3 Truing Stand Base Competitive Cyclist | Amazon
SW-7.2 Triple Spoke Wrench Competitive Cyclist | Amazon
Optional:
TM-1 - Spoke Tension Meter Competitive Cyclist | Amazon
The wheel and spoke system are an incredibly sensitive system. Wobbles will stress spokes, wear bearings, tires, and damage brake calipers. Be sure to inspect your wheels to make sure any wobbles are not the result of damaged spokes, cracked nipples, or an impact to the rim itself. Maintaining proper spoke tension to preserve wheel integrity over longer periods of time. Truing a wheel is done on an as-needed basis. If your wheels are spinning straight and your spoke tension seems even, then you don’t need to do any truing.
Lube
Tools & Supplies:
CL-1 Synthetic Blend Chain Lube Bottle (4 oz) Competitive Cyclist | Amazon
Tri-Flow Superior Lubricant Drip Bottle- 6 oz Competitive Cyclist | Amazon
Lubrication is vital for bike maintenance. Clean and lube the chain before every ride or every other ride at least. Lubricate the seat post regularly, especially for mountain bikes with dropper posts. Apply lube to exposed cables to prevent rust and brittleness. Put a drop of lube on bike bolts to prevent rust and water ingress, wiping clean after a minute. Regular lubrication ensures smooth operation and prevents corrosion.
Accessories
Tools & Supplies:
CR-2032 batteries Competitive Cyclist | Amazon
Though not part of the actual mechanical components of a bike, battery maintenance is an often overlooked task. Like changing smoke detector batteries yearly during Daylight Savings Time, we recommend replacing batteries in your accessories. Before each season, change the battery in your cyclometer, speed sensor, cadence sensor, and GPS unit (assuming it isn't rechargeable). Also, don't forget to replace batteries in road bike safety lights. Start your season out with a fresh power supply for all your add-ons.
That isn't everything... but this bike maintenance does more than enough
So that is our list of 12 bike maintenance items to get your bike ready for riding season.
Again, as we noted at the top of this article, this 12 point plan doesn't cover everything. This is only an interim bike maintenance plan for your bike until such time as you get your next professional overhaul or full tune up. But our plan does cover what we believe to be the 12 common problem areas of a bicycle that require regular maintenance.
And if we were going to offer up any additional bike maintenance advice here, we'd simply remind you to be diligent in servicing your bearing systems, and suspension systems. Don't skip or skimp on these. If it is due or needed, then we say get 'er done. Aside from a full suspension service, replacing bearings, or even simply re-greasing them, is not all that hard, if you have the right tools. We promise, learning how to do your own bearing service is a great skill to master.
So there you go.
We encourage you to get your hands dirty,,, try out some of the easier repairs for yourself. Pick one or more of the bike maintenance items, and learn how to do them yourself. Don't be afraid to jump in. Start building up that new mechanics skill.
However you do ultimately get your pre-season / bike maintenance done, the point is...to just make sure you do it. Start the season off with a freshly tuned bike and ensure you enjoy your riding season.
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©2024 Stirling Cycling Chronicles
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