| Anyone that has ever owned a car knows exactly | | | | twisted, this can occur during accidents. Lastly, when it |
| how important automotive maintenance can be. | | | | comes to your tires, check your spokes. Any damage |
| Performing regular tests and having regular | | | | should be repaired or replaced immediately for your |
| maintenance done such as oil changes, tire rotation | | | | safety. |
| and replacement, etc. can extend the life of your | | | | Your brakes are one of the most essential parts of |
| vehicle and save you a great deal of money in the | | | | your bicycle. Your brake cables may be loose if your |
| long run. Ignoring your cars systems until they have a | | | | brakes touch your handlebars when pressed. If this is |
| problem is not much smarter than avoiding annual | | | | the case, they should be tightened. If they show any |
| physical exams at your doctor. Many bicycle owners | | | | signs of wearing or fraying, replace them immediately. |
| however, do not realize that regular maintenance on | | | | Your handlebars are responsible for steering the |
| your bicycle is just as important. Taking care of your | | | | bicycle and maintaining alignment. Make sure that they |
| bike will ensure that it lasts for as long as possible and | | | | are adjusted to the proper height for you and that |
| stays as safe as possible. | | | | they are properly aligned with the front wheel. The |
| While a bicycle is a much simpler design than an | | | | front fork should be securely fastened to the |
| automobile, there are several similarities when it comes | | | | handlebar post to allow for proper stabilization. Make |
| to it's make-up. These include tires, and brakes. Chains | | | | sure that everything is tightened and properly secured. |
| and handlebars differ from an automobile but are no | | | | The last part of your bike that should be watched and |
| less important to care for. When it comes to your tires, | | | | maintained is the chain. The chain is responsible for the |
| you need to check these regularly for any wear and | | | | movement of the bike. By keeping it clean and well |
| tear. Much like a car, your tires need to be properly | | | | lubricated, you ensure that your ride will be smooth and |
| inflated according to the manufacturers' requirements. | | | | swift. A degreaser can remove any buildup but make |
| If the air pressure is not where it should be, you risk | | | | sure to replace the grease afterwards. |
| problems stopping in time, and gripping the road. Also | | | | By following these simple guidelines, your bike can be |
| check to make sure that the tires are not bent or | | | | with you for a very long time. |