Lesson 16 - Bike Maintenance Basics Every Cyclist Should Know

You don't need to be a bike mechanic to keep your bike running smoothly. 

A few simple checks before and after every ride can make your bike safer, faster, quieter and more enjoyable to ride. 

Think of it as giving your bike the same care you give your body.

 
🚴 1. Check Your Tyre Pressure 

Tyres naturally lose air over time. Before every ride: ✔ Inflate to the recommended PSI. ✔ Adjust pressure to suit your weight and riding surface. Correct tyre pressure means:

• Better grip
• More comfort
• Less chance of punctures
• Easier rolling

⛓️ 2. Keep Your Chain Clean

A dirty chain creates friction and wears out expensive components. After wet or dusty rides:

• Wipe your chain clean.
• Remove excess dirt.
• Apply fresh chain lubricant.

A clean drivetrain shifts better and lasts longer.

🔧 3. Check Your Brakes 

Before every ride: 

✔ Squeeze both brake levers. 

✔ Make sure they feel firm. 

✔ Listen for rubbing or unusual noises. 

Good brakes give you confidence on every descent.

 
⚙️ 4. Tighten the Important Bits 

Take 30 seconds to check:

• Quick-release levers or thru-axles
• Seatpost
• Handlebars
• Pedals

Loose parts can quickly become dangerous.

 
🔍 5. Give Your Bike a Quick Look 

Look for:

• Cuts in tyres
• Loose spokes
• Cracks or damage
• Worn brake pads
• Anything unusual

Small problems are much cheaper to fix before they become big ones.

 
💗 Bonus Tip: Look After Yourself Too 

While you're checking your bike… Don't forget your own comfort. Clean kit. Fresh nutrition. Water bottles filled. 

And before every ride… 

Apply Booty Butter to help prevent friction before it starts.

A well-prepared rider and a well-maintained bike make the perfect team.

 
Remember... 

The best cyclists don't wait until something breaks. They prevent problems before they happen. 

Five minutes of maintenance today can save hours of frustration tomorrow.

 💗 Ride Comfortable. Ride Confident. Ride Further.

💡 Coach Booty Says "A clean bike is a happy bike—and a happy bike makes every ride more enjoyable."

⭐ Gold Star Tip Make the ABC Check before every ride:

• A = Air (Tyres)
• B = Brakes
• C = Chain

It takes less than a minute and could save your ride.

 
❓ Question of the Week What's the maintenance job you forget most often?

🔘 Pumping tyres 

🔘 Cleaning the chain 

🔘 Lubing the chain 

🔘 Checking the brakes 

🔘 I leave it until something squeaks! 😅 

🎓 Next Week at Booty Butter Academy... 

We'll cover:

• Staying comfortable in the rain
• Improving visibility
• Wet-weather braking
• Looking after your bike afterwards
• Preventing chafing when everything is soaked