Read our in-house mechanic's top tips for getting your bike ready for spring riding.
When the East Coast is hit by that one last snow storm right as the Cherry Blossom trees are blooming we know that spring is truly around the corner. This is a great time to provide our annual public service announcement to get your bike to the shop or in your own stand to get your trusty bikes ready for spring and summer riding. Pro Tip: Your favorite bike shop is typically a ghost town during horrible weather and probably have a couple of mechanics waiting for your business.
Key Maintenance Needs After Winter Riding
Tires
Winter weather can cause glass and road grit to stick to your tires instead of rolling off. Check your tires for metal or glass stuck in the rubber, and that your tires aren’t “squared off” on the top from excessive wear instead of round on the top like when they were new.
Brakes
That same winter weather can wear down your brake pads much faster than dry months. Check to see if your brake pads (and rotors) have life left and that metal hasn’t gotten lodged in your pad or rim.
Cables, Grips and Bar Tape
If you rode during the winter it is good practice to replace your cables, grips or handlebar tape. Your cables probably have drag in the housing, and it is always refreshing to have more cushion from new grips or bar tape under your hands heading into the spring.
Other Things to Check
Any good bike shop should be prepared to give you a good diagnostic check over. If you are checking over your own bike here is a handy acronym to keep around and complete monthly:
ABC – Check
A – Air & Tires (This would include suspension on a mountain bike)
B – Brake Pads and Rotors
C – Cassette & Chain for wear
Check – Bolt check from the front of your bike to the back
Have questions? Post them below!
Photo Credit: Gately Williams
