Skip to main content
0 items

On yer bike with these top maintenance tips

Bike maintenance tips

Bicycle sales have exploded as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic. There's a been a record rise in the numbers of used and new bikes flying out of shops.

Haynes has also noticed the trend for more of us to hop on our bikes in preference to using public transport, with demand for The Bike Book rocketing by 566% since March 2020.

The Bike Book Haynes

The book, which provides invaluable guidance on all aspects of bike care, is an essential tool for anyone getting to grips with cycling. It’s packed full of vital hints and tips for anyone looking to tackle regular maintenance, running repairs and even major overhauls. For those looking to cycle to work or wanting to improve fitness to help overcome coronavirus, the also book features expanded coverage on choosing the best bike, from endurance road bikes to downhill mountain bikes and even triathlon bikes.

The Bike Book author James Witts says: “Finding a new or second-hand bike is like gold dust right now, with many facing long waiting lists which extend into the new year. What’s more, with the boom in bike sales, many bike workshops are now inundated with bookings. The challenge is many people don’t know where to begin with bike maintenance but whether new or old, these are essential skills to learn.

“Of course, many of us will have long-forgotten about bikes lurking in sheds, garages and other storage areas which are ripe for repair and ready to be turned back into roadworthy bicycles once more. It’s surprising how easy it can be to get your bike back up and running, so rather than being tempted to ditch your wheels, why not have a go at fixing up your bike yourself? With the Bike Book and a little skill, all cyclists can have the confidence to keep their bikes in a safe condition.”

James’s top tips for maintaining your bike

How do I clean my bike?

Your pride-and-joy can take a battering, so regular cleaning’s vital to keep things running smoothly. Wash your bike with a bike-specific cleaner – grime accumulates rapidly on wet, dirty roads – and check your brake blocks for the increased wear and tear of riding in poor weather. Keep your chain and cassette nicely lubed to extend their lifespan.

 

how do i clean my bike?

What mudguards does my bike need?

Okay, some might not think they’re uber-cool but mudguards are arguably your best winter friend. Broadly, there are two types of mudguard: those for frames that feature mudguard eyelets called ‘fixed mudguards’ and those for frames without, called ‘clip-on mudguards’. They not only keep you cleaner and dryer but, if you have one, your riding companion, too.

 

how do i fit a mudguard?

My bike tyres keep getting punctures!

Winter tyres usually feature some form of puncture protection beneath the surface and chunkier sidewalls to deflect sharp objects. If it’s raining, drop the tyre’s pressure to around 80-90psi to increase grip. 

 

what tyre for my bike?

How can I make sure I’m visible when riding a bike?

Get some hi-vis clothing. We’d plump for fluorescent yellow or pink clothing over white. And lights up front and out back are essential, their strength dependent on whether it’s more important to be seen (urban riding) or to see (country riding).

 

Cycling at night

How to stay warm and dry on a bike

Clothing choice is vital to enjoy cooler rides. Layering’s preferable to one heavy garment, so start with a base layer to wick away sweat and provide insulation. A short-sleeve polyester top comes next before finishing off with a waterproof or windproof jacket. Wear bib longs or commuting trousers down below. And a quality pair of gloves are essential.

what do i wear when cycling?

Bike Repair Guide app

For more hints, tips and video tutorials to help you fix your bike, download our Bike Repair Guide from the Google Play Store and Apple App Store.

Bike Repair Guide app