| All metallic objects, including bikes, can rust. If you leave | | | | performing at it's best. Screws and nuts should be |
| a bicycle outside in the elements, other moisture | | | | fastened down, and cables should be properly |
| speeds up the rust process. That kind of corrosion can | | | | connected. Make sure you take the time to align and |
| destroy your bike frame, cease up your steering, or | | | | adjust your brakes regularly. Otherwise, they'll interfere |
| stop your gear and chain. It's just like mom and dad | | | | with the rotation of the tire. And make sure to replace |
| said, put your bike away when you're done using it. | | | | your brake pads if they are showing signs of wear |
| What you should do is keep it protected from the | | | | and tear. |
| elements, in a place like the garage, carport, or shed. | | | | The difference between walking and riding is that chain |
| You can also put it in your home, just keep it out of the | | | | on your bike, so keep it in working order. Keep dirt and |
| weather. If you are forced to still have your bike | | | | debris out of the gear and make sure you've lubricated |
| outside, it's crucial you at least cover it with some kind | | | | them. The easiest way to lubricate your gear is to |
| of water resistant tarp. Tying it down isn't too difficult, | | | | simply flip the bike over and apply the lubricant. Look |
| you just put the tarp on top of the bike and use | | | | carefully and check if there's anything looking out of |
| bungees, rope, or some stones to keep the tarp in | | | | place. If the chain isn't tight enough, fix it. A loose chain |
| place. | | | | actually tends to fall off the bike altogether right in the |
| Make sure you do a good job so the wind doesn't | | | | middle of pedaling. That can be annoying, but also |
| remove the tarp. Maintaining bicycle tires is one of the | | | | extremely dangerous depending on where it occurs. |
| easiest things you can do for your bike. Not to mention | | | | The chain shouldn't be too tight, but it definitely shouldn't |
| how critical tires are to a bike. Tires should be | | | | come off easily. |
| inspected and filled before and after every ride! Make | | | | So what's the minimum you need to fix a bike on the |
| sure you also note the suggestions on the side of the | | | | road? Typically a tire pump, a tube spare, and a repair |
| rubber and to take them into consideration. Careful | | | | kit. Make sure that kit has a general tool sit that |
| inspection of the tire is necessary to avoid problems | | | | includes all the basics like screwdrivers, a spoke |
| down the line. The tire shouldn't have any scrapes, | | | | wrench, wrenches, and a chain master link. A bike is |
| cuts, bumps or tears. Those kind of tire issues tend to | | | | like any other machine and need to be regularly |
| equal a flat tire. | | | | maintained to function properly at all times. |
| Another thing to note on the tires is the treading, it | | | | A bike that hasn't been cared for can literally leave |
| shouldn't be too worn. If you notice the wheel has a | | | | you stranded, but a bike that actually has been cared |
| leak or has weak spots, you should probably replace | | | | for, you may use for years. |
| your tires. Tune your brakes if you want your bike | | | | |