When spring arrives, many dig their bikes out of storage after the winter and head to the bike paths. However, before you hit the pedals, it's important to perform a spring service to ensure the safety and performance of your bike. This list of tips contains a few important things that should be serviced and checked before you start cycling after winter. You can do the basic inspection yourself, if you notice defects in the bike's operation or it has been longer since the last service, it makes sense to have the bike serviced by a professional.
1. Start with cleaning, wash away dust and grime from both the bike frame and chains. For cleaning, use water and a mild detergent, or a cleaning product prepared separately for this purpose. A well-cleaned bike is much more comfortable to maintain.
2. Next, check the condition of the tires. If the tires are cracked or worn out, they should be replaced. Worn tires do not hold well, especially on wet asphalt or dirt roads, and may pose a risk of tipping over. Also make sure the tire pressures are correct. Driving with tires that are too empty is of course heavier, but can also damage other parts of the bike, such as rims.
3. Make sure that the brakes are in working order and that there is still some surface left on the brake pads. Also check the condition of the brake handles and cables on the upper sides. Take a small test run to see that the transmission is working perfectly. If necessary, add more lubricant to the power transmission, and at the same time it is good to oil the chains as well.
4. Replace the battery-powered lights with new batteries/charge the lights' batteries. A working front and rear light is nowadays a mandatory piece of equipment when cycling at dusk. If necessary, get new reflectors to replace dropped or broken ones.
5. Remember to adjust the saddle on the child's bike to the right height (and make sure that the bike is not too small in general), pedaling in a bad riding position is neither motivating nor good for the child's body.
After you have checked and maintained your bike, you can go cycling safely and enjoy the spring weather. However, remember to check the condition of the bike regularly during the season to avoid possible problems and keep your bike in good condition throughout the summer.
You can find supplies for seasonal bike maintenance from this link.