Maintaining your bike: steps to remember
Maintaining your bike requires neither expertise nor complicated equipment; just a little practice and consistency!
Every cyclist, regardless of their level of experience or practice, should familiarize themselves with the basics of bike mechanics and maintenance. Repairing a flat tire, adjusting a derailleur, or changing brake pads are tasks that anyone can do.
It's reassuring to know that you can always count on a safe and reliable bike, whether for a short ride in the city or a long trip on the road or trail. Here are the key times of the year to check your bike.
Before riding: the quick check
In two minutes, make sure your bike is ready to go. The ABCDV method guides you step by step through a quick and complete check:
- Air: Are the tires properly inflated and in good condition?
- Brakes and handlebars: Are the brakes working properly and is the headset tight?
- Chain: Is it properly tensioned and lubricated?
- Quick releases or thru axles: are the wheels tight and centered?
Final check and gears: Are the gears properly adjusted, and is the bike ready to hit the road?
For more details, read the full article on the ABCDV method on the Vélo Québec website.
Find bike repair shops along your route with Bienvenue cyclistes!
Wherever you are in Quebec, you can open the map at any time to find tourist establishments certified by Bienvenue cyclistes!, which are recognized for their warm welcome and expertise.
Discover Bienvenue cyclistes! establishments
Certified bike repair shops are committed to welcoming you with open arms and offering the following services:
- Minor repairs without an appointment
- Access to basic services (drinking water and toilets, electrical outlets, first aid kits, pumps and tools for minor repairs, safe and adapted bicycle parking, clear information on bicycle networks and services in the area)
- Sale of bicycle items
- Secure bicycle parking for at least 5 bicycles
See certified bicycle repair businesses
After your ride: cleaning makes all the difference
Cleaning your bike after every ride prevents dirt from building up and extends the life of its components.
- Light rinsing: moisten the bike with a gentle spray of water to remove dirt, without using high pressure.
- Cleaning: only use a cleaning product designed for bikes or stick to plain water.
- Brushing: gently scrub the frame with a cloth and the drivetrain with a brush.
- Final rinse: Rinse again with clean water.
- Drying: Dry thoroughly. For the chain, reapply lubricant; a clean, lubricated chain lasts longer and allows for smoother pedaling.
Every month: general and summary check
No need to completely disassemble your bike; a quick monthly check is enough to detect a problem before it gets worse.
- Brakes: Make sure the brakes are working properly and that the pads are not too worn.
- Suspension: if your bike has suspension, check the air pressure and make sure there are no oil leaks.
Tires: inspect the sidewalls and treads for cuts or cracks. - Wheels: spin the wheels and check that they are not bent.
- Screws and bolts: confirm that all components are tight (handlebars, saddle, pedals, etc.).
Every year: a complete tune-up
At least once a year, it is essential to check the overall condition of your bike and replace any damaged or worn parts. You can do this yourself or take your bike to a specialist.
Annual maintenance allows you to:
- Adjust the drivetrain by degreasing and adjusting the gears.
- Clean the cables and sheaths of the gears and brakes.
- Clean and grease the hub, crankset, and steering bearings.
- If your bike has suspension, clean the suspension seals.
Your intuition as a rider is also important! If you feel that a component is not working normally or optimally, don't hesitate to have your bike checked by professional mechanics.
Annual maintenance ensures a reliable, safe, and high-performance bike throughout the season.
For more information, check out the following articles on the Vélo Québec website
Simple step-by-step bike maintenance