I’ve been biking for a number of years, primarily single track XC or gravel riding. I do adventure racing, which is incredibly tough on the bikes, but am hoping to improve my bike life.
What are some of the important bike maintenance things that you all do?
Regularly: Clean and lube chain, Wash down frame, check brake pads, make sure all necessary tools and supplies are in seat bag for fixing flats Longer Interval: Check brake/shifter cables, clean cassette, check/true wheels, replace handlebar tape, clean and grease bottom bracket
These. Basic Bike these days just don’t need as much daily maintenance. 😿
Biggest outside case I am always paranoid about is a loosening headset or bottom bracket. If you ever notice any knocking up front fix immediately. Chris King headsets seem to have also removed this small piece of bicycle maintenance tho.
Do not pressure wash your bike! You will end up degreasing all those fancy sealed bearings.
Add for bikes with suspension…
Regularly: Gently wipe dirt off the stanchions, main seals, and levers.
Longer interval: Disassemble fork and/or shock to clean seals and rebuild with fresh grease and oil.
Pretty much this.
But even more obviously, check tire pressure (use a tire pressure calculator), replenish sealant every few months (if using tubeless tires), and visually inspect tires.
Monitor chain wear once in a while using a chain checker gauge. (The Park Tool CC-4 and Pedro’s Chain Checker Plus Ⅱ are examples of pretty good ones.) Replace the chain before it exceeds the recommended wear limit so that it won’t cause your cassette to wear out prematurely.