Your bike will work better and last longer if it is properly maintained. Get in the habit of checking your bike regularly.
A good bike will only cost you around £75 a year on maintenance, and even less if you pick up the spanner or Allen key 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.
Tools
There is a wide range of bicycle tools available, but all you really need to start with are:
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screwdrivers
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Allen keys
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spanners
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a pump
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tyre levers
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a puncture repair kit
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cleaning rags
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an old toothbrush
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lubricants and grease
Daily maintenance
Each day you use your bike, give it a quick once over. In particular, check the condition of the tyres and their pressure.
Weekly maintenance
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. Clean dirt and grease off wheel rims with a cloth and some lubricant spray.
Monthly maintenance
Wheels
Check tyre pressure and condition. Make sure your wheels are properly fastened and in line with the frame.
Brakes
Check the brake blocks for wear and ensure that they contact squarely with the rim, not the tyre. Replace worn or frayed brake cables and adjust brakes so that the brake levers don't come into contact with the handlebars when braking hard.
Gears
Check gears work correctly and cables move freely (though it's best to leave gear repairs to a bicycle mechanic). Clean the chain with a rag soaked in degreaser then re-oil.
Steering
Check for looseness in the handlebar and stem and tighten where necessary.
Pedals
Pedals should spin freely, so check the pedal axles for looseness and tighten.
Frame
Inspect the frame for any damage. Ensure the seat height is correct and that the seat post bolt is tight.
Checklist
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Daily: general check, tyres.
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Weekly: lubricate moving parts, gears, brakes, levers, chain.
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Monthly: check tyres & wheels, brakes, gears, steering, pedals, frame.