The ABC's of bicycle maintenance and care


A

is for air

air, bike air

  • Inflate tires to the rated pressure as indicated on the sidewall of the tire
  • Bicycle tires need to be re-inflated more often than car tires
  • Check for damage to tire tread and sidewall; replace tire if worn


B

is for Brakes, Bar & Bell

brake bar and bell


  • Rotate wheels to check that nothing is rubbing
  • Inspect brake pads; replace if there is less than 6mm of pad left
  • Check adjustments of brake levers; when applied, there should be at least 25mm between each lever and the handlebar


C

is for Chain and Crank

chain crank


  • Chain should be clean, lubricated and quiet
  • If chain skips while riding, a new chain, a new cassette or an adjustment may be needed
  • Make sure crank bolts are tight

Carry a small bicycle repair kit handy in case of emergency.

The repair kit is recommended to include:

  • Bicycle tire pump
  • Puncture repair kit
  • Lightweight wrenches
  • Plastic tape
  • Tire levelers/irons
  • Hex keys
  • Spare bicycle inner tubs
  • Snap-on chain length
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