Bike Maintenance

Bicycles work better and last longer when properly maintained. By carrying out simple maintenance jobs on a regular basis you can avoid expensive repairs, and increase the pleasure of your cycling.

BIKE MAINTENANCE TRAINING:
If you would like to attend a basic bike maintenance course, The Cycling Team at Kingston Council runs half day courses which are set up according to demand and cost only £15 per person to cover venue costs. Check our events calendar here to see if there are any courses coming up. If there are not, then follow this link for further information.

DO IT YOURSELF:
It is advisable to take your bike to an experienced mechanic once a year for a thorough service. However, with a little investment in tools and time, the majority of repair and maintenance jobs can be carried out at home. There are lots of free resources online to help you with repairs and maintenance. A great site is YHA's interactive guide to cycle maintenance found here.

TIPS:
There is a range of bicycle tools available, however all you need to start with are screwdrivers, Allen keys, spanners, a pump, tyre levers, cleaning rags, an old toothbrush, lubricants and a puncture repair kit.

RECOMMENDED DAILY CHECKS:
Each day you use your bike, give it a quick once-over. In particular, check the condition of your tyres and their pressure and make sure both your brakes are working effectively.

WEEKLY:
Lubricate exposed moving parts of the bike, such as the chain and gear mechanisms taking care not to get any on wheel rims or brake blocks

MONTHLY:

• Wheels
  Check tyre pressures and condition; ensure wheels are properly fastened and in line with the frame. 
• Brakes
  Check brake blocks for wear; ensure they contact squarely with the rim, not the tyre. Replace worn or frayed brake cables and adjust brake levers so they do not contact the handlebars when braking hard.  
• Gears
  Check gears work correctly and cables move freely. It is best to leave gear repairs to a cycle mechanic. Clean the chain with a rag soaked in degreaser then re-oil. 
• Steering
  Check for looseness in the handlebar and stem and tighten when necessary. 
• Pedals
  Pedals should spin freely so check the pedal axles for looseness and tighten. 
• Frame
  Regularly inspect the frame for any damage. Ensure the seat height is correct and that the seat post bolt is tight.