Welcome to Keven Lee’s Mechanical Skills Clinic, courtesy of Holland Cycles. This is the first of a series based on his clinic for WWSD riders on May 14, 2014. Starting off with the pre-ride bike check…
- Chain should be lubricated:
– Chains should be lubricated approximately every 200 miles.
– Ideally, apply chain lube 12 hrs prior to riding . This allows solvents to evaporate, and chain lubricant to adhere to the chain.
– Spin the pedals for a few revolutions to work the lube into the chain. Then wipe all excessive oil/grime from chain. It is impossible to wipe the lubricant from where it is needed on the chain. The chain should look clean and feel dry to the touch after its been lubricated, and properly wiped off.
2. Tires should have the correct pressure:
– Rider Weight < 90lbs – – – – 80-95psi
– Rider Weight 90-120lbs – – 90-105psi
– Rider Weight > 120lbs – – – 95 -115psi
3. Check the Bike Over Front to Back:
– Wheels: Check that the quick release (QR) levers are tight, and the wheel is centered. Some tires are directional. Always remember QR Levers go on the non-drive (left) side of the bicycle. Wheels should not have play. They should spin freely, without wobbling side to side.
– Check that your handlebar, stem, and brake hoods are tight. (It helps to use a torque wrench or have a shop check the stem hardware monthly.)
– Check your saddle is tight, and your seat height is correct. [Once you get your bike adjusted properly, mark seat post just above where it inserts into the bike frame. Whiteout is ok for marking seat posts.]
– Pedals and cranks (ball bearings) should not have side to side movement or play, and should spin freely.
GO RIDE!
My Blog on Bike Tires/Tubes 