Bicycle Maintenance Tools

"A Safe Bike Ride Depends Upon
  Regular Maintenance With The Correct Tools..."

...Just because it is so sturdy and reliable don't forget that your bicycle is vulnerable to wear and tear caused by regular use and exposure to the elements.

Regular preventive maintenance will keep your bicycle in peak condition and safe for riding throughout the year. Although some bicycle repair and maintenance is best performed by a qualified bike mechanic, you should be able to do routine maintenance using a few basic tools.

Let's go over some of the things you can do to keep your bike in perfect shape.

Your Bike's Tires

 To get the best ride and the most wear check the pressure of your tires to make sure they are inflated to proper specifications. Consult the manual or the tire’s sidewall for information on the range of acceptable pressures for your tire.

Watch for any splits or fatigue marks in the sidewall or tread. Check the rim for dents, twists or kinks. Spin each wheel to make sure it is true and centered in the stays.

If the wheel wobbles from side to side when spun, then it needs truing. Do some spokes need to be replaced or tightened? If your bike is equipped with quick-release mechanisms, make sure they are securely fastened.

 Your Bike's Steering

The handlebars, saddle and pedals must be securely attached to avoid accidents. Check the height of the handlebar stem.

Make sure that the handlebar stem and seat post are fastened so that their minimum insertion marks are not exposed. Are your handlebars should be tight and in line with the front wheel?

Are your handlebars and front fork are properly stabilized? You should be able to rotate the handlebar post freely in the front fork. It is a good idea to tighten the bolts that attach the pedal crank-arms to the front bearing.

Pedals should be tight, with no binding. Check for looseness in front and headset bearings.

 Your Bike's Brakes

 Test your brakes by squeezing both brake levers and while trying to roll the bike. If the bike moves while the brake levers are compressed or if the brake levers touch the handlebar, then your brakes are too loose and need some adjusting. Make sure brake cables are firm and tight.

Check the brake cable for breaks or frayed ends; replace any worn or frayed brake cable. When brakes are applied, the brake pads (shoes) should contact squarely with the rim and should not touch the tire or the spokes.

(Continued Below)

FREE!  Get your guide to safe bicycle commuting.  Save money... Save the planet.  You can do all of that and more with this guide to safe and economical bicycle commuting.  No Cost!  No Obligation!  CLICK HERE

 Your Bike's Chain

 It is important to keep your bike’s chain clean and properly lubricated. Use a rag soaked in a de-greaser to remove dirt and grease buildup. Always lubricate the chain after cleaning.

Bicycle maintenance gurus recommend using a wet lube in wet environments and a dry lube in dry environments. Make sure that the chain moves smoothly over the sprockets without sticking or jumping.

Essential tools for basic bike maintenance

 Proper inspection and maintenance of your bike requires a few basic tools. Here are the tools you will need to keep your bike running smoothly and efficiently. These tools may be purchased from http://www.BikeNToy.com or from online tool stores like http://www.BigDaddyTools.com and http://www.Buy-Tools.com.

Screwdrivers
Allen wrenches
Spoke wrenches
Cone wrenches
Puncture repair kit
Tire pump with a built-in gauge
Tire irons
Chain tool
Multi-tools
Cleaning rags
Degreaser
Lubricants

Protect the investment you have in your bicycle and enhance your riding experience with regular, basic maintenance.

www.BikeParts.com: Over 25,000 parts from over 400 bicycle manufacturers. BikeParts.com is your one stop Internet shop for mountain bike, road bike, and bmx bike parts. 

Big Bicycle Seat >>

Ride for Life...
Chip Clark
Famous Bike Guy

        Bicycle maintenance tools