Bicycle Maintenance 101
By Anna Jones at Eversure,
7th February 2025, 25 min read
Keeping your bike in top condition is essential for both performance and safety. Regular maintenance not only extends the life of your bike but also ensures that every ride is smooth, comfortable, and enjoyable. From frequently checking tyre pressure to adjusting brakes and gears, a little attention goes a long way. In this post, we'll guide you through the essential steps for maintaining your bike, helping you avoid costly repairs and keep your wheels rolling smoothly for miles to come.
Essential Tools for Bicycle Maintenance
Having the right tools makes maintaining and looking after your bike much easier whilst also ensuring you’re prepared for emergencies during rides. It’s a good idea to keep essential tools in a saddlebag so you’re ready for quick fixes on the go.
Recommended tools for bike maintenance and repairs include:
On-the-go tools
All these items are designed to be small and lightweight so they can easily be packed into a rucksack or a saddlebag meaning you'll have them on hand if you need anything.
- Multi-tool: Great for on-the-road adjustments. However, they may lack the leverage needed for at-home maintenance.
- Mini pump: A compact pump is great for emergencies during rides.
- Tyre levers: These are helpful for removing tyres when fixing flats.
- CO2 cartridges and valves: A quick way to inflate tyres during a ride; an alternative to the mini pump.
- Spare tube: Always sensible to have one for unexpected punctures or flats. Make sure to get the right size for your tyre – the size of your tyre is written on its sidewall.
Tools for at-home maintenance
Pre-Ride Maintenance Checks
Before heading out onto your ride you should conduct a series of checks. Two common check methods are the M-check and the ABC check (Air, Brakes and Chain).
The M-check is a comprehensive inspection that follows the bike frame’s M shape. Following the M shape, you will cover key areas including tyres, wheels, drivetrain, seat, cranks and cockpit. Use this list as a guide for what to check:
- Derailleurs & Shifting: Ensure both front and rear derailleurs are correctly fitted and shift smoothly.
- Axle & Hubs: Tighten axle nuts/quick release; check hubs for side-to-side play.
- Brakes: Ensure secure fitting and proper operation. Test the right lever (front) and left lever (rear) for emergency stops. The pads must engage the rims correctly and the cables should not be frayed.
- Spokes & Wheels: Spokes should be tight and the wheels should be straight and spin freely.
- Tyres: Inflate tyres properly and inspect for glass, thorns or nails.
- Saddle & Seat Post: Securely fit the saddle at the correct angle; tighten the seat post clamp.
- Pedals: Check pedals for correct fitting.
- Suspension: Ensure front and rear suspension travel freely.
- Frame & Components: Check for rust, damage and cracks.
- Chain: Examine the chain for rust, dryness and grime - clean and lubricate it as needed.
- Steering: Make sure it operates smoothly; check cables for obstructions.
- Reflectors: Verify proper reflector placement.
The ABC check is a quicker pre-ride assessment that focuses on air pressure, brake functionality and chain condition. Regular checks are vital since tyres naturally lose air, bolts loosen, and components wear over time.
If you’re purchasing a second-hand bike, conducting thorough checks is crucial to identifying any mechanical issues before you ride it.
Bike Lubrication: What is it and why do we do it?
Bike lubrication involves applying a lubricant to the key moving parts of a bicycle such as the chain, derailleur, brake pivots and cables. The lubricant reduces friction between components, helps repel dirt and prevent corrosion. Proper lubrication keeps your bike functioning smoothly and prolongs the lifespan of its parts.
You should use a bike-specific lubricant that is suitable for the conditions: dry lubricant is best for dusty conditions, and wet lubricant is best for rainy weather.
How to Lubricate a Bike Chain
For spray lubricants, aim behind the sprockets to avoid waste and overspray.
For dropper or non-propelled lubricants, apply to the lower section of the chain.
Pedal the drivetrain backwards as you apply the lubricant so that it reaches every part of the chain. One full rotation is sufficient.
Be mindful that applying too much attracts dirt and accelerates component wear, so use a moderate amount.
Allow it to sit for a few minutes, then gently wipe the chain with a rag to remove any excess.
How to Lubricate Bike Mechs
Properly lubricating the moving parts of your bike's front and rear mechs helps maintain smooth gear shifts and prolongs component life. Focus on areas like pivots and jockey wheel bearings.
Rotate the pedals and shift through the gears as you apply the lubricant and let it sit for a few minutes to sink into the components. Again, remove excess oil to prevent premature wear.
How to Lubricate Bike Cables
Over time, bike cables can become stiff, making braking and gear changes harder and less precise. Proper lubrication helps cables run smoothly through their housing therefore improving performance. Lubricating bike cables is a little more complex than lubricating the chain or mechs.
Firstly, you need to release the brake at the callipers.
Pull the outer cable away from the cable stops along the cable run, freeing the inner cable from the top slot.
Shift the front or rear mech into the largest sprocket or chainring.
Then, without pedalling, continue clicking the gear lever until it reaches the smallest sprocket or chainring position. You should avoid pedalling as this keeps the mech held in place by the chain, creating slack in the cable.
Focus on lubricating areas where the outer cable sits.
Wipe down the inner cable with a clean rag to remove dirt and grime.
Apply a light oil along the inner cable or use a cable oiler to push lubricant through the outer housing.
Re-site the cable by threading it back through the cable stops and returning it to its original position.
If the mech has shifted during the process, simply press it back into place with your finger
rs to reseat the cable properly.
How to Lubricate Pedals and Cleats
For smooth engagement and release, it is important to lubricate pivot points on your pedals and cleats. This reduces wear and enhances performance during a ride.
Wipe down the pedals and cleats to remove any dirt or debris. Apply the lubricant to the pedal’s pivot points and spring mechanisms.
Lightly coat any moving parts on clipless pedal systems.
Rotate the pedals a few times to help the lubricant distribute evenly.
Use a cloth to remove any excess lubricant to prevent dirt buildup.
Brake Maintenance
Proper brake maintenance is crucial for safe and reliable bike performance.
How to Maintain Rim Brakes
For bike with rim brakes, it is important to monitor the condition of the brake pads.
Make sure the brake pads are aligned with the rim and not the tyre to avoid any damage.
Replace pads when they become worn or uneven for consistent stopping power and effective braking.
Regularly check the brake cable is not frayed and it maintains sufficient tension.
If you notice the brake lever pulling all the way back to the handlebar then you need to adjust the brake system.
Adjust the cable tension to maintain optimal braking performance.
How to Maintain Disc Brakes
Bikes tend to have disc brakes over rim brakes as they have superior stopping power and reliability in all terrains and weather conditions. You can identify if you have disc brakes by looking at your wheel. If you see a metal rotor attached to the hub and a brake calliper mounted near the fork, you have disc brakes. The brake pads are housed inside the calliper and clamp onto the rotor to provide stopping power.
Clean the rotors regularly to remove any dirt or grease and eliminate squealing noises.
Then inspect the brake pads and replace them when they are less than 1.5mm thick.
You also need to bleed hydraulic brakes annually or as needed to remove any air bubbles and maintain their overall efficiency.
Disc brakes can lose effectiveness and produce loud noises when they have been contaminated by lubricants, grease, cleaning products, grime or even the natural oil on your fingers. This means you must handle brake components carefully and regularly clean them to avoid contamination.
Please note: If you are removing your front wheel for transport, never squeeze the brakes whilst the wheel is off. This can cause the brake calliper to close and will make it very difficult to reinstall the wheel.
How to Adjust Your Gears and Brakes
Over time, your bike’s gears and brakes will naturally require adjustments due to cable stretching and wear of brake pads or blocks. These changes can lead to reduced braking efficiency and gear indexing issues such as rattling or imprecise shifting. Most tasks for maintaining crisp gear changes and effective braking can be performed by hand, without the need for tools.
Brake Lever
Proper brake lever positioning is crucial for both comfort and braking power, as your fingers are strongest when curled around the lever. To adjust brakes using barrel adjusters do the following:
- If your bike has one, the lock nut (the larger outer nut) secures the adjuster and prevents it from loosening over time.
- Then wind the adjuster. Turn it outwards to tighten the brakes (move the lever further from the handlebars). Turn it inwards to reduce lever reach – this is ideal for smaller hands.
- Test the lever position by making sure that the lever cannot be pulled back to touch the handlebars.
- Tighten the lock nut against the lever to maintain the adjustment.
Some brakes, especially hydraulic systems, lack barrel adjusters as they self-adjust. If the brake pads are severely worn then you may need to adjust the cable at the brake calliper or replace the pads altogether.
How to Adjust and Index Bike Gears
Over time, your bike’s gears may need adjustment to ensure smooth shifting and avoid excessive noise. A common cause of shifting issues is the stretching of cables, which can lead to misalignment. You can address most of these problems using the barrel adjuster found on the derailleur, shifter, or inline cable housing.
Adjusting Gears Using the Barrel Adjuster
- Rear Gears (Shifting from Small to Large Sprocket): Turn the barrel adjuster counterclockwise to increase cable tension and help the chain shift smoothly to larger cogs. For smoother shifting from large to small cogs, turn the barrel adjuster clockwise to reduce tension.
- Front Gears (Shifting Between Chainrings): Similarly, adjust the barrel on the front shifter to help the chain shift between chainrings. Turn counterclockwise to shift from smaller to larger rings and clockwise to shift in the opposite direction.
Test your gears after each adjustment to make sure the transitions are smooth. It will also allow you to check if further tuning is required.
If your chain skips off the cassette or chainrings entirely, you may need to adjust the limit screws on the derailleur. This is typically needed only in cases of significant shifting issues.
Additionally, you should avoid resting your bike on the drive side, where the derailleurs, cassette and cranks are. This will help protect the derailleur hanger and maintain accurate shifting.
General Tyre Maintenance
Regular tyre maintenance is essential for both performance and safety. Check your tyre pressure weekly, it should match the recommended PSI marked on the tyre sidewall.
Additionally, inspect your tyres for signs of wear, such as cracks, bulges, or worn-down tread. If the casing is visible or the tread is significantly worn, it's time to replace your tyres.
How to Repair a Bicycle Puncture
Although proper bike tyre maintenance can reduce the risk of punctures, they can still occur.
Learning how to fix a puncture is essential so you aren't left stranded with a flat tyre on the road or trailside. Carrying a spare inner tube and a puncture repair kit on every ride will mean you’re prepared for unexpected punctures. A puncture repair kit is particularly useful if you experience a second flat and run out of spare tubes because it will allow you to repair your tube and continue your ride. It’s also a cost-effective solution, as you won’t have to buy a new tube every time you get a puncture.
If you're unsure how to fix a puncture, it’s a good idea to familiarise yourself with the process before heading out. Here’s a step-by-step guide to fixing a puncture.
Punctures are common due to the inflatable rubber inner tubes used in most bike tyres that are easily pierced by sharp stones, thorns, nails, or other debris. While punctures can be inconvenient, especially when you're in a hurry, they can be repaired quickly and easily if you’re equipped with the following:
- Self-adhesive repair patches
- A spare inner tube
- Tyre levers
- A pump
To repair a puncture, you’ll first need to remove the wheel. Quick releases allow for quick and easy wheel removal, and they are typically used for seat pin adjustments as well. Some quick-release levers are marked ‘open’ and ‘closed’, indicating their tight and loose positions.
How Do I Use a Quick Release?
Tighten the Quick Release: Make sure the lever is tightened appropriately. The lever should be free for the first quarter turn, then begin to tighten and hold the wheel or seat pin in place.
Adjusting Tightness: If the quick release needs adjustment, treat it like a nut and bolt. Hold the lever in place and turn the nut on the opposite side to tighten or loosen it.
Final Tightening: The next quarter turn of the lever should secure the system firmly.
Positioning the Lever: The lever should be tucked away (upwards or backwards), especially on the front wheel, to avoid it catching on bushes or vegetation.
Removing the Front Wheel
When removing the front wheel, you should keep the bike upright initially. For bikes with V-brakes and other calliper systems, you should release the brake by pulling the noodle (the bent tube) away from the opposing calliper.
Then undo the quick release lever. If the wheel doesn’t drop out immediately then you’ll need to loosen the quick release nut a few turns whilst holding the lever steady. Avoid removing the nut entirely to prevent losing the spring.
After loosening, the wheel should then drop out when you lift the bike’s front end by the stem.
Removing the Rear Wheel
When it comes to removing the rear wheel, you should shift the rear mech to the smallest sprocket to create space. Then follow the same steps for the front wheel – release the brake and undo the quick release.
As the wheel starts to come out, gently move the rear mech away from the frame vertically. If the wheel is stuck, gently push down on the top of the tyre whilst lifting the bike slightly to help it release.
How to Replace a Bicycle’s Inner Tube
- Deflate the tube. Press the centre of the valve to fully deflate the inner tube. For Presta valves, unscrew the locking nut. For Schrader valves, turn the valve cap upside down and press it onto the valve stem.
- Use your hand to press the tyre bead (edge) into the centre of the rim to loosen it. This makes it easier to remove the tyre.
- Using a tyre lever, lift the bead over the rim. Hook it under a spoke to hold it in place.
- Insert a second tyre lever 50-75mm away from the first and lever the bead off the rim all the way around. Only remove one side of the tyre; leave the other bead on the rim.
- Gently pull the inner tube out. Push the valve through the rim to remove the tube completely.
How to Repair an Inner Tube
Replacing an inner tube is often faster than repairing it but knowing how to fix one is still helpful.
- Remove the inner tube from the wheel.
- Inflate the tube slightly and check for air escaping to identify the hole.
- Use sandpaper from your patch kit to scuff the area around the hole.
- Peel off the self-adhesive backing from the patch and press it firmly onto the clean and dry tube.
- Put the repaired tube back into the tyre, re-seat the bead and inflate it to the proper pressure.
After replacing or repairing the inner tube, carefully place the wheel back onto the bike. Ensure the axle is securely seated in the dropouts, align the brake rotor with the calliper (for disc brakes), and tighten the quick release or wheel nuts firmly. Finally, reconnect the brakes and check that the wheel spins freely without rubbing.
Wheel Nuts
Some bikes use wheel nuts instead of quick releases to secure the wheels. These are straightforward to use but must be tightened properly, typically with a 15mm spanner. Be sure to carry a spanner as part of your puncture repair kit if your bike requires wheel nuts.
When refitting the wheel, ensure it is correctly aligned before fully tightening both nuts. Misalignment can cause the wheel to rub against the brake pads, reducing efficiency and causing unnecessary wear.
Wheel Truing
For smooth and safe bike rides, you should regularly check your wheels for wobbles by spinning them. If you notice any misalignment, use a spoke wrench to adjust the spoke tension and straighten the wheel. Be careful as over-tensioning the spokes can cause damage. If you're unsure how to properly true a wheel, it's best to consult a mechanic at your local bike shop.
Bike Tyre Pressure
Maintaining proper tyre pressure can reduce the likelihood of punctures. Underinflated tyres feel sluggish and are more prone to pinch flats, otherwise known as ‘snake bites’. This happens when the tube gets pinched between the tyre and rim on impacts, like hitting a pothole. Proper tyre inflation helps the tyre absorb shocks and maintain its shape, providing better puncture resistance against sharp objects on the road or trail.
It’s also important for your tyres to not be overinflated as this can amplify vibrations.
This means that you should check your tyre pressure before rides. The best way to do this is with a floor pump that has a built-in pressure gauge. Alternatively, you can use a standalone tyre pressure gauge.
Secure the pump head or gauge onto the valve and read the pressure displayed. Check the tyre sidewall for the manufacturer’s recommended pressure and adjust the tyre pressure by inflating or deflating the tyre as needed.
If you don’t have a gauge, then you can press the tyre with your thumb. It should feel firm but have a little give. This method is not precise but can suffice if you don’t have a gauge on you or are short on time.
General Bicycle Chain Maintenance
To extend the life of your chain and prevent breakages you should regularly inspect it for wear. Your chain gradually stretches over time so to avoid damage you should use a chain checker tool to measure elongation. If it shows more than 0.5% elongation, then you need to replace the chain.
Staying on top of this is beneficial as cassette and chainring repairs can be costly.
How to Repair a Broken Bicycle Chain
Although rare, a broken bike chain can occur, especially if the chain is worn or old. With the right tools, fixing it is straightforward. To repair a broken chain, you'll need:
- Quick link pliers
- A quick link (matching the chain speed)
- A chain tool
It is also worth carrying a multi-tool with a chain breaker and a quick link or joining pin when out on your rides. This means that if the chain is not bent, you will be able to repair it on the spot.
If you notice any bent links whilst you are out then you will need to remove the damaged section and shorten the chain. This will limit your gear options but will allow you to cycle home and replace the chain later.
How to Repair a Broken Bike Chain with a Quick Link
A quick link is the simplest and most efficient method for fixing a broken chain. It’s a two-piece connector that fits into the chain’s outer link, allowing you to quickly rejoin the chain without needing to remove multiple links.
- Firstly, remove the broken link. Only remove one section of the broken chain and leave the two ends with inner links.
- Set the quick link by placing it onto the chain and aligning the rivets with the opposite plates. Slide the rivet heads into the keyhole slots.
- Then secure the link by pulling the chain tight to lock the rivets into place. You can use quick link pliers to snap it shut. If you don’t have the pliers then engage the rear brake and rotate the pedals to secure the quick link.
How to Repair a Bike Chain with a Chain Tool
- You first need to remove the broken link. As you are not using a quick link you should remove two sections of chain using a chain tool. Position the link in the extractor’s teeth, align the pusher pin with the chain rivet and wind it until the rivet begins to emerge.
- Once the rivet is sufficiently out, release the extractor tool and gently separate the chain. If it doesn't come apart, reinsert the chain and push the rivet further out but don’t push it completely out the other side.
- To replace the chain, thread it around the drivetrain. You need to make sure it passes through the front and rear derailleurs correctly. Adjust the rear derailleur to the smallest sprocket and thread the chain accordingly.
- Once the chain is in place, align the broken ends. Place both free links together and insert the rivet into the extractor tool. Wind the pusher pin gently until the rivet is securely in place, just enough so that a small portion of the rivet is visible on both sides of the chain.
- After the rivet is in place, check the chain by bending it and rotating the pedals to ensure it moves smoothly.
- If the repaired link feels stiff, place the chain in the second set of extractor teeth and rotate the pusher pin a quarter to half turn to release the tension.
Regular Bike Cleaning
Cleaning your bike goes beyond aesthetics – it helps extend its lifespan and saves you money on repairs. Winter rides demand extra care in particular to prevent moisture and salt from corroding parts. Dirt mixed with lubricant creates an abrasive paste that accelerates wear.
After every ride, you should wipe down the chain thoroughly with a cloth to remove grime. As a general rule, every 60 to 100 miles (95 to 160km) you should apply chain lubricant after cleaning and then wipe away any excess. This should be down more often if cycling in wet or muddy conditions.
For the frame, use a mild soap solution and sponge. Avoid high-pressure water to protect bearings.
For the drivetrain, degrease and brush the chain, chainrings, cassette and derailleur pulleys.
Wipe the rims and hubs of the wheels and check for debris in the spokes and tyres.
Clean the brake pads and braking surfaces including the rims and rotors.
Common Problems
Problem Number 1: Chain Slipping
Resolution:Adjust derailleur alignment or replace a worn chain/cassette.
Problem Number 2: Squeaky Brakes
Resolution: Clean pads and rims/rotors, or adjust pad alignment.
Problem Number 3: Loose Headset
strong>Resolution: Tighten using the top cap and stem bolts.
Problem Number 4: Soft Brakes
Resolution: Adjust cable tension or bleed hydraulic lines.
Final Thoughts
Proper bicycle maintenance is essential for getting the most out of your bike and having a smooth, safe and efficient cycle ride. Regular checks on key components like the chain, tyres, brakes, and gears can prevent unexpected breakdowns and costly repairs. Keeping your bike in top condition not only extends its lifespan but also reduces the likelihood of accidents or claims.
To further protect your bike, get bicycle insurance today. Our coverage safeguards you against theft and accidental damage, so you can enjoy every cycle ride knowing you’re protected.