Just as many non-cyclists continue to talk about how much they love the "new car smell", for cyclists, there is nothing better than the feeling of "new bike day". At that time, every component is brand new and feels fresh. The drivetrain plays a precise and synchronized mechanical symphony, the brakes feel touchable, there is unlimited power, and the frame does not even show signs of scratches or dirt. Unfortunately, with every kilometer ridden, the performance of the bike will begin to decline from the first pedal stroke.
Cycling is a mechanical sport, and all parts are designed to wear. While there are many methods and tricks that can be used to extend the life of a bicycle and its key components. It is equally important to know how to spot the parts that need to be scrapped.
Here we have provided a timeline for you to compare and check!
The first year
No matter how much you like it or hate it, we all have to deal with the maintenance of our bicycles. The most important thing to remember is that a well-maintained bicycle is a safe bicycle. Don't be the person who always has problems on the ride, and everyone is afraid to ride behind.
First Ride – Inspection
Even the world’s top mechanics will check their handiwork after the first ride or two to make sure bolts haven’t worked loose and bearings haven’t set. The first few times, pay special attention to noises and vibrations you feel, as they could be signs of improperly adjusted or loose threads.
— Adjusting the Cables
If you use mechanical shifters or brakes, you’ll need to adjust the cables after a few rides to keep the shifting crisp. These are called “cable stretch” adjustments, as it makes sense for a braided cable to stretch a little and lose adjustment. If your bike has shifting issues after one or two rides, don’t worry. These are easily corrected. Stay tuned, we’ll show you how!
— Feeling for Bearing Knocking While Riding
If you notice that the steering seems sloppy, or if the front end makes noises, especially when braking, the bearings may be loose. When the bike is new and breaking in, it’s important to be able to spot such issues and stop riding before you damage expensive parts.
— Keep your bike clean, but don’t overdo it with the wash
The simplest cleaning kit consists of a few brushes, soapy water, and a bucket. That should be all you need to keep a lot of dust and grime out of your bike, drivetrain, and other problem areas. Make sure not to pressure wash anything that could force water into places it shouldn't go, such as bearings or components. And, never store your bike wet.
— New bikes come with a lubricated chain
You won't need to update it for at least one or two rides, but the factory lube may not suit your riding conditions.
1 Month - A True Brake and Shift Adjustment
This will need to be done after riding for a while. Expect to have to fine-tune some of these components in the first few weeks.
— If using tubeless tires and sealant,
The fluid will evaporate within the first 6 to 10 weeks, even if you never have a flat. You'll need to replenish the sealant supply in your tires to keep them working properly; otherwise, you'll be at risk for a flat even with the smallest puncture or glass puncture in your tire.
— Check the brake pads
Especially if you ride downhill a lot or are a heavier rider. These parts are designed to wear, and the time it takes to wear out varies greatly based on your riding style and conditions. If only the rear brake pads are showing wear, you need to improve your technique, as the front brake should be doing most of the stopping work.
— Every bike squeaks
No matter what logo your bike has on the down tube or how high the price is, every bike can go from being a finely tuned machine to a bunch of squeaks. Most of the time, a mechanic will diagnose not only a squeak but several other squeaks on the same component or even bike model. This expertise is valuable, in learning the language of these bikes and narrowing down the source of squeaks, cracks, and other vibrations.