The cycling season is finally here, and we couldn’t be more excited to see everyone back out on the roads! Whether you’re riding a high-end road bike, a trusty hybrid, or something a little more vintage, a few simple maintenance checks can go a long way in keeping your rides smooth, safe, and fun.
To help everyone get rolling, we’re kicking off the season with a few basic bike care reminders. Don’t worry—you don’t need to be a mechanic to do these. Let’s start with the most important (and often most overlooked) one:
Tire Pressure: Pump It Up—Every Week!
Air slowly leaks out of your bike tires even if you’re not riding, so topping them up regularly is key.
How often should you check your tire pressure?
Once a week is a good rule of thumb, especially if you’re riding frequently.
How much air should you put in? It depends on the type of bike and the tire:
- Road bikes: Usually 90–110 PSI (check the sidewall of the tire for a recommended range)
- Hybrid bikes: Typically 50–70 PSI
- Mountain bikes or wider tires: Often 30–50 PSI
Always check the side of your tire for the manufacturer’s recommended pressure range—and don’t go over it! Use a pump with a pressure gauge if you can, so you’re not just guessing.
Adjusting for rider weight:
Heavier riders may want to inflate their tires closer to the upper end of the recommended pressure range to help prevent pinch flats and improve rolling efficiency. Lighter riders can usually stay at the lower end for better comfort and grip. It’s a balancing act between comfort, performance, and tire wear, so feel free to experiment within the safe range to see what feels best.
Why it matters: Properly inflated tires make your ride smoother, reduce the risk of flats, and make pedaling easier. Under-inflated tires slow you down and wear out faster.
A Few More Basic Checks
Here are three quick things you can do before heading out:
- Spin the wheels: Make sure they spin freely and don’t rub against the brakes.
- Squeeze your brakes: They should engage smoothly and stop the bike firmly.
- Check your chain: Wipe it down if it looks grimy, and add a little bike-specific chain lubricant if it’s dry.
Advanced Tip: Check Your Chain Wear
If you’ve been riding a lot, your chain wears down over time—which can lead to poor shifting and expensive wear on your cassette. If you have a chain wear checker tool, you can use it to measure stretch. If the tool shows 0.75% wear, it’s time to think about replacing your chain. At 1.0%, it’s definitely time. Not sure how to check? Ask one of the more experienced riders or swing by your local bike shop—they’ll be happy to help.
Happy riding, everyone! Let’s make it a great (and safe) season.