Well, sitting here on the shores of Lake Superior near Ashland Wisconsin and enjoying the view… from INSIDE.  That’s because it is -1 outside with a wind-chill of about -20.  And that’s a heat wave.  It was -65 with the wind-chill last week.  But I digress.

What’s a guy to do?  I know, I’ll get my bike ready to ride!  Yep. It’s never too early.  Of course there are a million things to do outside for all of us winter sports and activities lovers but sometimes you gotta chill… PUN INTENDED!

From small to big you want to maintain your rig…

So let’s take a break from the cold and think spring.  Get your bike ready.

Here are seven quick tips to fix it right!

  1. Check the bike chain for signs of wear.  If it does not look in good
  2. working condition, it might be time for a change.  You can clean the bike chain with a tooth brush and citrus solvent.  Once you have cleaned the bike chain, add some lubricant to keep the chain in proper working condition.  Each link should move freely and if there are any links that bind or pinch, replace the chain.  Depending on how much you adventure out, you may need to lubricate the chain bi-weekly or monthly.
  3. Check the tires for proper inflation.  The PSI should be labeled on the tire.  If not, it’s easily available at a local bike repair shop or the internet.
  4. Spin the wheels to make sure they are rotating freely.  Over time, all types of trails can really put a tremendous amount of abuse on the wheels.  Rocks, branches, even curbs and more can cause the wheels to wobble.  If it has any noticeable wobble, it might not hurt to check with a local repair shop to have them check out your hubs and spokes.
  5. Check all the spokes.  Make sure none are missing, bent or loose.  There is a simple tool available at any bike shop to tighten them, but it needs to be done right.  Over tightening can lead to as much trouble as loose spokes.
  6. Check to make sure all bolts are tightened.  The seat, handlebars, lights, reflectors, mirrors… everything.
  7. Check the brakes.  Check that the brake calipers, pads, levers or any mechanisms connected to them are not loose, bent or damaged.  Simply hold the tire off the ground, spin the tire and apply the brakes while watching them.  If there is any chatter or pinching that doesn’t feel or look right have a professional check them out.  NEVER risk it when it comes to brakes!

If you have any further questions you would like Team-mom-n-dad to investigate, please let us know and we will dig into your question.

 

Safety first… ”ALWAYS WEAR A HELMET!”

 

Remember, “We’re all in this together.”