Readying your cycle for a summer of riding: fundamental assessments to ensure smooth travels
Gearing Up for Summer Cycling: Simple Maintenance Tips for Your Ride
🚴🚲 Relax, there's no judgement here – being a seasonal cyclist is perfectly fine! With the sun shining and the weather warming up, hitting the road on two wheels is a lot more appealing. But don't forget, some basic maintenance can make your summer cycling experience even better. We've got Jake Fieldsend, co-founder of bikebook, to thank for these easy-to-follow tips to get your bike ready for the road.
1. Brake Check
Fieldsend advises, "Take a look at your brake pads. They might have degraded during the off-season, even if the bike hasn't been used. Give the levers a squeeze—if the braking feels weak or you see frayed cables, it's time to swap them out."
2. Chain Care
"Chains can rust or become stiff if the bike's been standing still," Fieldsend says. "Check for any corrosion or stiff links, and if you've got a wear tool, check for chain stretch. Replacing a chain early saves wear on pricier parts."
3. Air Up
"Tyres can crack or flatten a bit during storage," Fieldsend notes. "Inflate them to the recommended pressure and give the sidewalls and tread a careful once-over. If they feel brittle or seem to go soft easily, it might be time for new ones."
4. Gear Up
"Go for a quick ride or use a workstand to run through the gears. If shifting feels sticky or the chain skips, your derailleur might need adjusting or the gear cables could be due for a change."
5. Get Lubed
"After months off the road, most bikes need a thorough clean and fresh oil," Fieldsend says. "Focus on the chain and moving parts, making sure to wipe off any excess to keep dust at bay."
6. Safety First
"Do a full check for loose bolts, rattling components, or anything out of place. Spin the wheels, check the brakes are aligned, and listen for any creaks that could indicate a problem needing attention."
By following these simple yet effective bike maintenance tips, you can ensure your bike is ready to roll smoothly this summer!
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Resources:
- Recumbent Bikes vs. Upright Bikes: Which One Suits You Best?
- A Second Set of Eyes on the Road with the CarBack Bike Radar
- Secure Your Ride: Best Bike Locks of 2025
(Enrichment Data: While the enrichment data doesn't directly provide Jake Fieldsend's six recommended bike maintenance checks for the summer riding season, it offers a general guideline for preparing a bike for summer cycling, which may align with Jake Fieldsend's recommendations:
General Summer Bike Maintenance Tips
- Brake Pads: Check for wear or hardening. Squeeze the levers to test their functionality.
- Tire Condition: Inspect tires for wear, cuts, or damage. Check the tread depth and adjust the pressure accordingly.
- Chain and Gears: Ensure the chain is clean, lubricated, and well-adjusted. Check the gears for smooth shifting.
- Cables and Hoses: Inspect cables for fraying or damage, and lubricate them if needed.
- Bolts and Screws: Check all bolts and screws, especially on the stem, handlebars, and seatpost, to ensure they are tightened properly.
- Frame and Fork: Inspect the frame and fork for any signs of damage or corrosion. Clean and lubricate moving parts like the headset and bottom bracket.)
In alignment with the recommended bike maintenance tips for the summer season, ensure you prioritize a health-and-wellness regimen that includes fitness-and-exercise by cycling. A well-maintained bike can contribute significantly to your lifestyle, as seen in the six simple yet impactful bike checks by Jake Fieldsend, co-founder of bikebook. Moreover, keeping up with periodic home-and-garden tasks like cleaning and lubricating your bike might benefit its longevity and performance, making it ready for the upcoming cycling adventures around health-and-wellness hubs, gardens, and other scenic summer spots.
