Essential Bike Maintenance Every Filipino Cyclist Should Know
Keeping your bike in good condition is essential for safety, performance, and longevity. Regular basic maintenance can prevent costly repairs down the road and ensure a smooth, enjoyable ride every time. You don't need to be a pro mechanic; mastering a few fundamental checks and tasks can make a huge difference, especially given the varied road conditions and climate in the Philippines. A well-maintained bike is a reliable companion for your adventures.
Pre-Ride Check (ABC Quick Check): Before every single ride, take a minute or two to perform this simple safety check. It can prevent common issues and potential accidents.
- A - Air: Check your tire pressure. Use a floor pump with a gauge for accuracy. Tires should be inflated to the pressure range indicated on the tire sidewall. Under-inflated tires are prone to pinch flats and handle poorly, while over-inflated tires can give a harsh ride and reduce grip. Squeeze the tires – they should feel firm.
- B - Brakes: Squeeze both brake levers firmly. They should feel solid, not spongy, and should stop the wheel effectively without touching the handlebar. Visually inspect the brake pads for wear – they should have visible grooves and not be worn down to the wear indicator line (or metal backing). Ensure the pads contact the rim (for rim brakes) or rotor (for disc brakes) evenly and not the tire.
- C - Chain & Cranks: Look at your chain. Is it relatively clean and lightly lubricated, or dry and gritty? Lift the rear wheel and turn the pedals – does the chain move smoothly through the gears? Listen for any clicking or grinding noises. Check your cranks (the arms your pedals attach to) by wiggling them side-to-side; there should be no looseness. Also, quickly check that your quick-release levers (on wheels and sometimes seatpost) or thru-axles are securely tightened.
Regular Cleaning and Lubrication: A clean bike functions better. Focus on the drivetrain (chain, cassette, chainrings, derailleurs) as dirt and grime here cause the most wear. After wet or muddy rides, rinse your bike gently. Use bike-specific cleaners or mild soap and water with soft brushes or rags to clean the frame and components. Use a degreaser and a stiff brush specifically for the drivetrain to remove old lube and grit. Rinse thoroughly and dry the bike well, especially the chain. Once the chain is completely dry, apply one drop of bike-specific chain lubricant to the inside of each chain link roller while slowly backpedaling. Let the lube penetrate for a few minutes, then use a clean rag to wipe off ALL excess lubricant from the outside of the chain. Excess lube attracts more dirt.
Tire Care: Beyond checking pressure before each ride, regularly inspect your tires for embedded glass, thorns, sharp rocks, cuts, or excessive wear on the tread. Remove any debris carefully. Knowing how to fix a flat tire is arguably the most crucial trailside/roadside repair skill. Practice at home! Ensure you carry the necessary tools on every ride: tire levers, a spare inner tube (or two), a patch kit (as backup), and a reliable portable pump or CO2 inflator with cartridges.
Know When to Visit the Shop (LBS): While these basic checks and tasks cover a lot, some maintenance requires specialized tools and expertise. Don't hesitate to visit your trusted Local Bike Shop (LBS) for:
- Complex gear indexing or shifting problems.
- Brake adjustments beyond simple pad replacement (especially hydraulic disc brakes).
- Wheel truing (straightening wobbly wheels).
- Suspension servicing.
- Bottom bracket or headset issues (creaking, looseness).
- Any task you don't feel comfortable or confident performing.