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Old 07-20-11, 08:23 AM
  #3  
leob1
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Join Date: Jul 2006
Location: Middle of the road, NJ
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Originally Posted by BlazingPedals
but their bikes aren't any faster for the extra attention.
Mine is.
But seriously, most of your bikes problems will be lubrication related. A drop of oil can go a long way. Give it a wipe down once in a while, you'll see where dirt will build up, usually because of an excess of grease or oil makes the dirt stick. The brake pivots, derailer pivots, and chain all benifit from a drop of oil now and then. You'll notice a brake problem when the pads don't retract from the rim when you release the lever. When it happens you'll know. A drop of oil will free it up(usually).
As for the chain, when shfting gets sloppy, or the drive chain makes more noise than you think it should, it's time to clean and lubricate. What to use for chain lube can start wars, so you'll have to do your own research. After a rain ride, of on a dusty MUP, is a good time to lube the chain. Wipe it with a rag first, apply lube, and wipe off the excess. Takes a few minutes, you'll notice a difference.
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