The ABC's of bicycle maintenance and care
A
is for air
![air, bike air air, bike air](/wps/wcm/connect/markham/fe0d78db-628a-4fef-b75a-d9b767a2bc69/1/MaintenanceA+-+Copy.png?MOD=AJPERES)
- 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 brake bar and bell](/wps/wcm/connect/markham/fe0d78db-628a-4fef-b75a-d9b767a2bc69/2/MaintenanceB+-+Copy.png?MOD=AJPERES)
- 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 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