Originally Posted by modmon
i never really cared about it before on my beater but now that my new track bike is pretty much done, id like to know how keep my ride clean and in good shape.
what are some routine things you do to your bike to keep it in good shape? how often and how do you clean the bike? anything to look out for?
my beater has lasted 5 months of daily commutes without a wash or a chain lube... all it ever gets is fresh air in the tires.
I clean the chain with citrus degreaser twice a week and relube with wax lube (summer) or wet lube (rain/autumn/winter). After heavy rain, I clean the frame plus cog using Motorex Bike Spray (or Shimano Shine). Also, if you have steel frame/aluminium seatpost combo, remove the seatpost at least once every 2 months or so and re-lube with vaseline to avoid permanent jamming. Twice a year I take the bike apart and check the hub plus BB bearings. I pump up the tires every 2 weeks