Guide to bike maintanence
A bicycle has certain parts that need to be replaced from time to time to ensure that everything  functions properly, smoothly, and above all safely. Besides the tyres, this includes the service parts of the components groups. These parts are subject to natural wear processes, even when the equipment is used as intended. Examples are: Cassette sprockets, chainrings, chains, brake pads, cables and cleats.
Performing regular maintenance on a bicycle will improve its performance and longevity. The exact schedule for a particular bicycle will depend on how it is used i.e. it's weekly mileage, weather conditions, road (or off road) conditions and so on.
A yearly maintenance schedule should be considered to be a starting point that assumes an average rider and average conditions. Maintenance can then be made more or less frequent.
Bike Maintenance - Before Every Ride:
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Quick check of tyre inflation and condition.Visual brake inspection.
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Check brake cables, hoses and also pad wear.
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Check for broken spokes.
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Check for loose components.
Bike Maintenance - Once a Week:
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Degrease chain if there is a build up of old lubricant and dirt.
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Lubricate chain.
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Lubricate moving parts with light oil.
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Check hubs and bottom bracket for wobble.
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Rotate wheels to check that they are in true.
Bike Maintenance - Every Three to Six Months:
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Thoroughly check brake function.
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Check Derailleur (rear mech) adjustment.
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Grease Seat post. It may not technically be a moving part, but it is not desirable for it to become permanently stuck. Carbon Fibre seat posts should be removed and whipped clean and fitted again with Carbon fibre Grip Gel.
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A Bronze service should be considered to keep your bicycle in tip top condition.
Bike Maintenance - At Least Every Year:
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Complete disassembly, cleaning and lubrication of all moving parts.
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Check chain for wear. Replace chain as soon as it goes out of tolerance.
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Grease metal to metal contact points.
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Replace worn out parts as necessary.
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Bike Maintenance - Suspension Maintenance:
Periodically, to maintain maximum performance, your suspension fork will need to be serviced (manufactures recommend an overhaul every 100 hours of riding). Who better to carry out this service than Velocity Bikes? Velocity Bikes are one of the very few cycle shops in the UK that has the skills, knowledge and tools to perform this type of service. Servicing your suspension fork can prevent the need for replacing your fork which saves you money in the long run.
Bike Maintenance - Hydraulic Maintenance:
We specialise in the repair and servicing of hydraulic disc brakes from leading names i.e. Shimano, Magura, Hope, Avid, Hayes and Formula. Whether it's a change of pads, fitting of braided hoses or a complete overhaul, we at Velocity Bikes are equipped to do the job.
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