#How to properly clean your bicycle.
Maybe you didn't take the time to clean up after your last ride, or you used your bike in the rain or mud. Or maybe you just want to tinker with your bike again because you feel like cycling again! We've rounded up a few simple tricks you can do at home, DIY style, to get your bike optimally prepared, brand new and ready to ride.
Check axles or quick releases
Pump up tyres
Check brake pads for wear
Clean drive system
Check that your thru axles and quick releases are tight and in place. You definitely don't want them to come loose while driving. While you're there, take a moment to clean your thru-axles: just pull them out, wipe them clean and put them back in, making sure they're firmly in place.
Check your tire pressure and inflate the tires to the recommended pressure. Remember that the maximum pressure of a bicycle tire is not always the ideal pressure! Here's a great tool to help you get the pressure right. If you are using a tubeless setup, make sure your sealant has not dried in your tires. If it has been a few months, clean the sealant and refill the tire with new sealant.
It is important to regularly check your brake pads for wear. If they are nearly worn out, they will not be as effective at stopping your bike. Even worse, if you use them past a certain point, they will damage your rims or your disc brake rotors.
Your drivetrain consists of all the parts that move your bike forward, including the chain, cassette, chainrings and derailleurs. Cleaning this setup with a brush will keep your bike running smoothly; See below for tips on cleaning each part of the drive system.
Clean chain
Place your bike in a stand or turn it upside down so that the drive system is accessible. If you have a chain check tool, this is a good time to check chain wear. Assuming the chain is still good and does not need to be replaced. If you want to clean it, simply apply a degreaser to the chain and let it sit for a few minutes. Use a brush to scrub the chain and then wipe it with a clean cloth.
Clean cassette
The cassette (or freewheel) is the stack of gears attached to the rear wheel of your bicycle; Due to the narrow space between each gear, it is easy for the cassette to get dirty. To clean it, simply apply degreaser and scrub each gear with a small brush. Once you've removed the dirt, rinse it away with warm, soapy water; then rinse with clean water (you can use a garden hose, keep the pressure low). Be sure to completely clean the degreaser so that the chain doesn't become dirty when you reapply the lubricant. Dry the cassette with a soft cloth (microfiber or a clean cloth) and leave until completely dry.
Clean frame
Use a cloth or sponge with some soapy water to wash your frame. Make sure the soap does not contain petroleum products, as these can damage the paint on your frame. After washing the frame, rinse it with clean water and dry it with a soft cloth.
Rust on cabling and housings
While cleaning the bike, check your cables and housings for signs of rust. If you see one, it's a good idea to have the item replaced at a bike shop. Keeping your cables and housings rust-free makes a huge difference in shifting performance, so it's good practice to replace cables every 1-2 seasons [depending on usage and riding conditions].
Clean pulley wheels
Pulley wheels are the small wheels on your derailleur that guide your chain as it moves up and down your cassette. Over time, they can become clogged with dirt and grime. Use a plastic tire lever or small screwdriver to clean them and remove the black goo from the wheels. Use a brush to scrub away any dirt and then wipe clean with degreaser.
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Lubricate the chain
Applying some lubricant to your chain is a surefire way to keep it running smoothly and extend the life of your drive system. You can buy chain oil at any bicycle shop. Make sure you apply it sparingly and be careful not to get it on your brakes or discs. Using one drop per link and wiping off the excess the next day will make it easier the next time you clean your bike. Using too much lubricant attracts dirt and covers your chain in black blobs. Instead, use a minimal amount of lubricant, but apply it regularly [ideally you should check the chain before every ride]. ​
These are just a few things you can do at home to get your bike ready to ride again. When you feel confident, check for play in your stem and pivot. The same goes for your suspension, if you have one. In general, you want to be sure that everything on your bike runs smoothly before you head out for your first spring ride, for example. If you want a professional adjustment, you can always go to a professional bicycle repair shop, where an expert will arrange all this for you. They ensure that everything is in perfect condition so that you can get the most out of your cycling season.