Bike Maintenance During Isolation

Introduction

• Isolation activities: Bike maintenance
• Focus: Maintenance without many spare parts or specialist tools
• Goal: Address often neglected parts of the bike

Preliminary Steps

• Remove the wheels: Enables thorough checks and maintenance.
  • Check disc rotor bolts: Ensure they are tight.
• Inspect cassette: Confirm it is sufficiently tight.
• Check wheel axles: Ensure they rotate smoothly and are free of play or coarseness.

Brake Maintenance

• Disc brake calipers:
  • Clean brake pads: Hot water recommended, avoid detergents.
  • Clean calipers: Use dedicated disc brake cleaners if available.
  • Check brake pad material: Ensure enough material is left.
  • Push pistons back if necessary: Use clean nylon or plastic tire lever.

General Cleaning and Inspection

• Clean under mudguards and fork seals: Remove build-up of mud and debris.
• Inspect fork seals: Ensure they are in good condition.

Bottom Bracket and Crank Maintenance

• Remove cranks: Typically require an 8mm or 5mm Allen key depending on the model.
  • Thoroughly clean around bottom bracket and chain ring: Remove all dirt and grime to prevent creaks.
  • Inspect bottom bracket: Check for any creaking; possible removal needed for a thorough inspection.

Tools and Specialized Maintenance

• Use a torque wrench: Ensure bolts are tightened to the correct torque settings.
• Consider specialized maintenance tools: If needed (such as for press-fit bottom brackets), plan to acquire the appropriate tools.
  • Press-fit retaining compound: Necessary for some bottom brackets to stop internal movement and noise.

Saddle and Seat Post Maintenance

• Check saddle clamp: Clean and lubricate to prevent creaks.
  • Use grease instead of thread lock: Allows for easier adjustments and prevents creaking.

Additional Safety and Efficiency Checks

• Rear derailleur and derailleur hanger: Ensure bolts are tight, use thread lock if necessary.
• Front and rear quick-releases: Ensure they are tight and correctly oriented.

Final Cleaning Tips

• Thorough clean-up: Pay attention to often neglected areas like under brake levers.
• Surface finish: Use appropriate cleaners for the specific finish of your bike.

Conclusion

• Isolation Overhaul: Spend time wisely maintaining your bike.
• Engage with the community: Suggestions for more isolation activities are welcome.