huskertko

I just got into cycling and bought a bike, the LBS does lifetime free tuneups, but what can/should I be doing on a regular basis in terms of maintenance? For me it was a lot of $$ spent on the bike and I don't want to overlook or ignore basic maintenance practices to keep it in good shape, both cosmetically and mechanically.

Thanks

Husker

rjs0702

Tuneups are expensive so always keep your bike in good shape with that offer. Other than that, keep your wheels trued up cause, for me, that runs around 25 bucks. Though you dont have to do it too often, it saves you money and you can do it often if needed.

milchad

Don't let the chain squeak. Keep it clean and lubed with quality chain lube such as Pro Link Gold.

caloso

I read somewhere that the easiest, best maintenance you can do is to keep your drivetrain clean and well-lubed.

alanbikehouston

A clean chain keeps the chain, chain wheels and cogs from wearing out. Take just one minute to spin your chain through a cotton rag after every ride.

Every ten hours of riding or so, I put Pedro's chain wax on the rag and spin the chain through the rag for several minutes. Let the chain dry for six or eight hours, and spin the chain through a clean rag to remove the excess lube.

The first hundred miles of riding will often result in wheels going out of true, crank bolts getting loose, and brake and shifting cables stretching. Take the bike in at 100 miles and get that stuff taken care of.

MONGO!

Clean drive train.

Keep tires at min. 100psi

tcoop25

This is a good primer for new cyclists.

https://bicycletutor.com/tune-up/

mr handy

yup I agree with everyone else.
1. Keep your chain and rings clean and lubed, I wipe down my chain every couple rides and any time they get wet.
2. keep tires well inflated.
3. keep your frame clean. this is easy and quick, just grab a paper towel and some pledge. A light spray on the paper towel and a wipe down every few rides and you are good to go.

idcruiserman

Zinn and the Art of Road Bike Maintenance

dark13star

You should definitely be able to adjust cable tension by yourself. It is just a matter of turning barrel adjusters. Also, make sure you know how to center your brakes, especially if you take your wheels off on a regular basis.

huskertko

I think when I take it in for its first tune up, I will have the LBS show me the best way to clean and maintain the drive train as well as maintaining the brakes and such, then from that point on take care of that part of the maintenance myself and let the LBS do the full tune ups a couple times a year.