Basic Bicycle Maintenance and Equipment

You too can keep your bicycle rolling smoothly, and safely, whether you are just now bringing it out of winter hibernation or even if you use it regularly.

With just a few tips and a few tools, you can make most repairs and perform maintenance on your own. The tools are available at any hardware store, with the exception of a "Y" Allen wrench, which may be purchased at any bike shop.

These tools would be a one-time investment of $25-$50.
Tools (*carry on every ride)

• *Tire irons --these are very handy, trust me
• *Tire pump ­ with a pressure gauge
• *Tire patch kit ­ and extra tube
• *Combination tool
• De-greaser -- and lube for chain and bearings
• Set of metric Allen wrenches (I like to use a "Y" Allen with a 4, 5 & 6mm combo)
• Phillips and flathead screwdrivers
• Medium size Crescent wrench -- or a set of pen-ended/boxed-end combo wrenches
• Spoke wrench -- available in single sized or multiple sized, if you buy a single sized, make sure it fits the nipple size of your wheels
• Cone wrenchs -- the wrenches have a flat profile that allows them to reach the hub cones with the lock nut in place
• Cable cutter -- brake and shift cables are woven and fall apart if not cut cleanly
• Chain tool -- this is needed only if you are planning to go on to more advanced projects with your bike

With the proper tools in hand, keeping your bike out in the sunshine is simple. Washing your bike, checking the brakes, wheels, and drive train are all key elements to keeping your bike rolling smoothly.

Washing your bike gives you an opportunity to see things on your bike that the average person wouldn’t notice. You will become familiar with how it looks and operates. Do not use a high pressured hose because it could force dirt into bearings and cause damage.

Next, take the time to inspect the bike from top to bottom, noting cracks, fatigue marks in the frame and rusted or frayed cables.

Brakes are one of the most overlooked items on a bike, but one of the most important. Squeeze the brake lever and try to roll the bike. It should not move. Check to see if the brake levers come all the way back to the handle bar, they should not. If they do, either the brake cable needs to be tightened or the brake shoes need to be replaced.

Check for fraying in the brake cable or a kink that would make the action of the brake sluggish. If either of these situations is found, replace the cable. After both brakes are adjusted properly, put a little lube on the pivot in the handle and on the brake pivot bolt. Also make sure the brake shoes are centered on the rim when the brakes are applied. If not, loosen and adjust to center. Don’t forget to re-tighten.

Things will not go smoothly if your wheels are not in good working order. Look over each wheel and inspect the tire to see if there are any cuts or abrasions. Also check the side walls for cracking. If any of these conditions apply, you will need to replace the tire. Use one of your tire irons to work the bead (the edge of the tire) off the rim. This will help you to work the whole tire off.

The drive train is the "transmission" of the bicycle. Use your "Y" wrench to check the tightness of your chain ring bolts and also check the front and rear derailleur to ensure they are tight.

Remember, if you remove any part that is metal to metal, or threaded, it must be greased and lubed before the part is put back.

Use a dry lube for your chain. Just turn the crank backwards, put lube on the chain and wipe off the excess.

Think of these items as one-time investments if you are serious about maintaining your bike on your own. If not, you can take it into a bike shop and expect to pay between $35 and $55, each time you bring it in.

If you do not ride frequently, or only in summer, this may be an option for you. If you ride more often, the investment is a good idea. Doing your own maintenance and repairs allows you to become more familiar with your bike. This will build your confidence to make on the road repairs, especially fixing flats and making small adjustments.

Jim Haraughty works for Cronometro Bike Shop in Madison.