Today's Science Tip: How to Maintain Your Bicycle to Extend Its Lifespan
Your newly bought bicycle becomes heavy and shifting gears is difficult after only six months of riding. Is it a quality issue? Many cycling enthusiasts have this question. Actually, most of the time, the decline in vehicle performance is not a quality problem, but rather due to neglecting routine maintenance. Today, we'll share maintenance techniques for the core components of a bicycle, teaching you simple methods to extend your vehicle's lifespan. The accompanying images are real-life maintenance operation diagrams taken by our company, recreating realistic maintenance scenarios.
I. Drivetrain: Applying Oil ≠ Random Smearing, the Key is in the "Location"
The drivetrain system (chainring, chain, freewheel) is the core of maintenance and also the part most prone to dust accumulation. Many people pour machine oil directly onto the chain, which actually attracts more dust, turning it into "sludge" and increasing resistance. The correct method is "dot-applying oil."
The specific operation involves three steps: First, wipe the dust off the chain surface with a dry cloth. Then, apply 1-2 drops of dedicated bicycle lubricant (avoid using machine oil or cooking oil) to the moving joints of the chain. After applying the lubricant, rotate the pedals for 1 minute to allow the lubricant to fully penetrate. Finally, wipe away any excess grease from the chain surface with a clean cloth. The freewheel and chainring teeth should also be cleaned regularly. Use a stiff-bristled brush to remove accumulated dust, performing this maintenance monthly for smoother shifting.
II. Braking System: In addition to replacing the pads, check the "gaps."
Taking disc brakes as an example: Unusual noises from disc brakes don't necessarily mean the brake pads are worn out. It could be due to oil contamination on the disc or uneven gap between the brake pads and the disc. Data shows that 30% of disc brake failures are caused by oil contamination. If there is a "sizzling" sound when braking, wipe the disc and brake pads with an alcohol swab to remove oil. If the brakes feel too soft or too hard, adjust the brake cable tension (for mechanical disc brakes) or brake fluid (for hydraulic disc brakes). V-brake users should regularly check brake pad wear. When the treads on the brake pads are worn smooth or cracks appear, they must be replaced immediately. Severely worn brake pads can reduce braking power by more than 40% in rainy weather.
III. Wheels: Don't just inflate, adjust the spokes too!
If you feel the bike wobbling while riding, it may be due to loose spokes causing the wheel to become out of round. Check method: Lift the wheel and rotate it to observe the gap between the rim and the brake pads. If the gap fluctuates, the spokes need adjustment.
In addition, tire pressure also needs maintenance. Different bike types require different tire pressures: Road bikes require higher tire pressure (8-10 bar) and need precise inflation with a professional pump; Mountain bikes require lower tire pressure (3-5 bar) to enhance grip; Commuter bikes should maintain tire pressure at 4-6 bar. Insufficient tire pressure increases rolling resistance, making riding more strenuous; excessive tire pressure increases the risk of tire blowout, especially in summer when the pressure should be reduced by 0.5 bar.
IV. Frame: Rust prevention is key, cleaning techniques are important.
The focus of frame maintenance is rust prevention and scratch prevention. For high-carbon steel frames, they must be dried thoroughly after riding in the rain, especially the frame joints and screws. A thin layer of anti-rust oil can be applied periodically. While aluminum alloy frames are corrosion-resistant, prolonged exposure to direct sunlight should be avoided to prevent paint aging and fading.
When cleaning the frame, do not use a high-pressure water gun to directly spray bearings, bottom brackets, etc., as this can cause water to seep in and cause rust. It is recommended to wipe the surface with a damp cloth, and for stubborn stains, use a neutral detergent (such as dish soap), then dry with a dry cloth. High-end models have an internal anti-rust coating on the frame, but this coating will also fail if not maintained regularly.
V. Bearing Components: "Silent Maintenance" is More Important
Bearing components such as the bottom bracket and hubs are hidden inside, and problems are only discovered when they occur. Hearing a 'creaking' noise while riding is most likely due to insufficient lubrication in the bearings. These components require longer maintenance intervals; ordinary users can have them inspected at a professional shop annually, where a technician will disassemble and apply specialized bearing grease. In daily use, avoid riding on roads with deep water to prevent water from entering the bearings; when parking, do not lean against the frame for extended periods to avoid uneven stress on the bottom bracket, which can lead to deformation.
A good bicycle is not only "ridden" but also "maintained." For ordinary users, performing basic maintenance monthly (cleaning the chain, checking the brakes, and inflating the tires) and deep maintenance annually (adjusting the spokes and lubricating the bearings) will keep the bicycle in peak performance and extend its lifespan by more than 5 years. If you have any questions about the maintenance steps, you can add and contact our official company account to view detailed video tutorials.
