As a bicycle owner, it's important to take care of your bike to ensure it has a long lifespan. Not only will this save you money on repairs and replacements, but it will also allow you to enjoy your bike for longer. Here are a few tips for prolonging the life of your bicycle:
Regular maintenance: One of the most important things you can do to extend the life of your bike is to keep it well-maintained. This includes cleaning and lubricating the chain, checking the tire pressure, and tightening all bolts and screws. By performing regular maintenance, you can catch small issues before they turn into bigger problems. If you are time poor it is recommended to at least have your bicycle serviced every 6 months. Feel free to book you next service with us through the bookings tab
Protect your bike from the elements: If you store your bike outside, it's important to protect it from the elements. The Australian harsh UV emitting sun is especially harsh on rubber and plastic. We replace many grips that have turned sticky and clammy, due to the bike being left out in the sun. This can be avoided, by as using a bike cover or storing it in a shed or garage. Exposure to rain, snow, and other elements can cause rust and other forms of deterioration, which can shorten the life of your bike. At service intervals we clean the drivetrain and also apply a MucOff Ultra Corrosion Defence to combat this.
Use the right tools: Using the correct tools when working on your bike can help prevent damage and prolong its life. For example, using the right size wrench or screwdriver can prevent stripped bolts or damaged components. We have amassed a impressive high end assortment of tools from the many repairs undertaken at the shop. Some quality tools and the know regarding their use can go long way in prolonging the life of your bicycle.
Use it regularly: Bikes that are used regularly tend to last longer than those that are left unused for long periods of time. This is because regular use helps prevent rust and other forms of deterioration. If you can't ride your bike regularly, be sure to at least take it out for a spin every few weeks to keep it in good working order. The streets of Melbourne are littered with unused chained up bikes, with the tale tale signs of non use being a rusted chain, and sun damage and dust.
Invest in high-quality components: Higher-quality components tend to last longer and require less maintenance than cheaper alternatives. This can be a worthwhile investment in the long run. Although bikes form large budget department stores appear affordable, the components often arent very serviceable and have much less life than components made by reputable brands like Shimano, SRAM, Campagnolo and Microshift. When shopping for new components, be sure to do your research and invest in products from reputable brands.
By following these tips, you can help ensure that your bike stays in good working order and has a long lifespan. Happy cycling!
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