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Basics About Bicycle Tune Up

By Daphne Bowen


Modern-day bicycles have become so versatile that they can be used for very many purposes. They are used as a source of employment and for transportation purposes in some areas of the world. Such purposes are more common in developing countries. In more developed nations, they are used more for competition, recreational, and fitness purposes. However, all the aforementioned purposes can only be achieved if proper bicycle tune up is done.

Poor bike maintenance can lead to accidents to the rider or other people or both. It can also lead to damage of property, which may cost the rider a lot of money in paying for damages caused. Bikes that are not maintained also wear our first, partly because of excessive friction between various parts and components. Most steps involved in tuning up a bike are pretty simple and for people who are hands-on, it should take a few hours to complete.

The job is manual in nature and some people do not like such jobs. In such a case, one should visit any of the many bike shops in Cincinnati, Ohio to have a good tune up. Charges by most Cincinnati bike shops are within reasonable limits and they are run by experts in this field. That implies that an effective job can be done within minutes. The rest of this writing is about some of the basic tips one can follow for a DIY project.

The first factor to be considered needs to be cleanliness. A well-cleaned bike is already maintained half-way. When buying cleaning products to use, one should choose ones that do not have effect on people, animals, and the environment. The market now has several biodegradable cleaners to choose from. As one cleans, the have to give more attention to cassettes, derailleurs, pedals, frames, brakes, chains, and chain rings.

Cleaning may require dismantling some parts of the bike in order to clean them properly. Such parts ought to be dismounted carefully and cleaned well. Before they are returned, bicycle grease must be applied well. Grease is preferable over oil because it last longer, hence provides protection for a longer period.

The brake system needs serious attention. It is the one that can save a life in most cases. Brake systems must be checked in terms of how fast they can stop the wheels. Those that are in good condition will always stop rotating wheels instantly when one presses the brake levers. Worn out brake pads must be replaced and those that are unevenly worn out should also be replaced.

The drivetrain should also be checked for efficiency. Normally the force the rider applies on the pedals is transmitted to the rear wheel by the drivetrain. For that reason, it should be serviced and greased effectively. Any loose components must be tightened and replaced whenever it is necessary. The wheels should also be checked to ensure that they are rotating properly and that they are not damaged by brake pads.

Finally, a test ride has to be conducted just to ensure that everything is in order. One can never be sure without test riding. Any problems discovered during the test ride must be fixed before taking off to the streets.




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