How to Prepare your Bike for Spring

Start your spring clean with attending to one of your most treasured possessions – your bike! From adjusting derailleur hangers to checking your bicycle crankset, there are many steps you can take so we have highlighted a few reminders for you to refer to this coming Spring. Apply a Dry Lubricant Avoid using WD40 as it is an oil-based lubricant that will attract grime you will later have to clean off. Instead, ensure to apply a dry lubricant to the chain, rear set of gears, and all moving parts of the bicycle crankset. Some lubricant can also be applied to the front and rear wheel bearings. Check Derailleur Hangers If you do not have access to a work stand then turn your bike upside down and make sure it will not fall over. Complete the obvious step of spinning the cranks to observe the shift points – are they moving smoothly? If not, check to ensure your derailleur hanger is not bent. If it is straight, you will need to adjust your rear mech and shifters. If it is bent, then replacement derailleur hangers can be ordered via our online shop and our team can advise you as to the correct part for you, if necessary. Are your Brake Pads Working? If you think you will be using your bike more now that winter weather is over with, it might be high time to check your brake pads. This should be a part of your routine in all seasons, but it pays to be cautious if you are thinking of commuting or getting out more in Spring. Check your Wheel Spokes Are your wheel spokes tight enough? The only way to know is to check ahead of Spring bike rides. At the base of the spoke, use a spoke wrench to tighten the spoke with the correct size wrench for your bike. Don’t fall into the trap of thinking you’re experienced enough to spot something wrong at a glance and devote an extra five minutes to this activity during your Spring bike check. Contact Our Team If you want to enquire about any of our gravel, road or MTB components, such as our wheel bearings or bicycle cranksets, please contact us via our website today.