Bicycle service before the start of the season

Cycling tires

The tires are the cyclist's contact with the road surface. Before the start of the season, it is important to inspect the tires if there are signs of wear and damage on the tread. This is the part of the tire that is also called the tire profile and is the true contact between the wheel and the ground. Tires that are old or worn offer much poorer road grip.

Bearings

It is necessary to pay attention to the bearings after winter training because they wear out or are simply destroyed. We recommend inspecting and, if necessary, replacing the drive bearings, the wheel bearing and the steering bearing.

Handlebar strap

The handlebar strap is important because we lean and grip on it, and the worn strap offers poorer grip. We also advise replacement, as after a certain time, salt from sweating and winter roads accumulates under the tape. And after all the bike looks much nicer with the new strap.

Chain and sprockets

The chain is one of the most heavy-duty parts on bicycles. Constant forces on it lead to wear. A bad chain can thus break, and this leads to us being left with the bike by the roadside. That’s why chain-care is so important. We recommend regular replacements and cleaning, as a worn chain can also destroy the sprockets on the rear wheel, which must then be replaced.

Brakes

Whether it is disc brakes or caliper brakes, we must make sure that the brakes and brake surfaces are in optimal condition. Especially in the winter months, the wear is greater, so constant inspection and service is essential.

Brake and derailleur hoses and cables

Most bikes still use hoses and cables to change gears and brake. These eventually stretch and wear out. Hoses, however, are exposed to weather conditions as well as constant friction with the cable moving inside. Wear and tear can lead to a malfunctioning transmission or brakes.

Hydraulics

Hydraulic brakes are also getting more popular among road cyclists. The hydraulic fluid also needs to be changed, as bubbles can form in the system, which can lead to the loss of one or both brakes.

Battery

If your bicycle has a battery that is needed for gear changes, it is recommended that you take the battery out of the frame for a month or two and wipe it so that no moisture accumulates on it.