Wednesday, November 22, 2017

What is bike servicing?

Did you keep the “Owner’s manual and Technical Handbook” that came with the bicycle you purchased? Some brands do supply that.



You should try to service your bicycle by referring to the schedules noted in the manual. Eg, some parts like your chain, derailleurs, brake levers and brake calipers need to be lubricated on a weekly basis, while other components on a monthly or yearly basis. However, if you enjoy cycling in the rain, you will have to lubricate moving parts more often. These are servicing that you can easily do on your own if you are able to buy the correct lubricants for the components.




The more you ride, the more frequent maintenance for moving parts or components that are not running as efficiently will be required. It is best that you send your bicycle to a professional bicycle shop if you have doubts about your experience or ability to properly disassemble to repair or maintain your bicycle. Moreover, some components, such as, the suspension fork and parts on drivetrain or wheels are difficult to disassemble to fix or replace parts as special tools are required.

If you are planning a long ride or you are participating in an event, sending your bicycle to the shop will enable the mechanic to check if any parts are loose or missing or need to be replaced. They will also inform you if your gears need to be set if they are not shifting efficiently. A good bike shop will also lubricate moving parts on your bicycle and clean it up for you on your request.

You can also check with your bike shop what they will do for you if you send your bicycle in for full servicing. Then decide if it is time for your bicycle to go through these services. You may have to leave the bicycle at the shop for more than a day.

Regular maintenance services and adjustments that you can carry out on your own or with the help of a mechanic from a bike shop will keep the bicycle in good operating condition.

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