Bike maintenance: basic procedures and tools - tips from Motozilla

Owning a bicycle not only provides a great opportunity to enjoy an active lifestyle and the outdoors, but also requires regular maintenance to maintain optimal performance and safety. Proper maintenance of your bike will help prevent possible breakdowns, improve its performance and increase its lifespan. In this article, Motozilla will review the basic bike maintenance procedures and the tools you need to perform them.

Before you start servicing your bike, especially after riding on muddy or dusty roads, you need to clean your bike. Use a brush or soft cloth to remove dirt, dust, and other contaminants from the frame, drivetrain, and components.

After cleaning, lubricate the important mechanical parts of the bike. Key areas that need lubrication include the chain, sprockets, pedal bearings, and carriage bearings. Use special bicycle lubricants designed to reduce friction and wear.

Brakes are one of the most important systems on a bicycle, providing safety and control while riding. Bicycle brake parts are expensive, so carefully check the condition of your brake pads and brake rims, as well as the tension of your cables or hydraulic brakes. Make sure that the brakes are responsive and even.

Well-tuned gearshifters ensure smooth shifting and a comfortable ride. Check the settings of the front and rear shifters, as well as the cables or hydraulic lines for wear or damage. Adjust the shifters so that shifting is accurate and smooth.

Correct tire pressure is important for safety and comfort while cycling. Use a tire gauge to check your tire pressure and make sure it is within the manufacturer's recommendations. Insufficient pressure can lead to instability and increased tire wear, and excessive pressure can reduce traction.

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