Ready your bike for Summer

Here are some DIY maintenance checks you can do yourself, to ensure your bike is ready for the season ahead.

Or book in for a service at your local AvantiPlus workshop today!

•    Give your bike a thorough clean & polish using hot soapy water and a brush (DO NOT USE A PRESSURE WASHER!)…….. (See our ‘ZERO chain cleaner kit’ and range of ‘Pedros Lubes’).

•    Lube your chain (See ‘Pedros Chain Lubes’).


•    Check your gears shift nice and smooth and are not making any unusual noises. (If so, take your bike along to your local AvantiPlus dealer).

•    Check your tyres for any visual signs of excessive wear, cracking or glass fragments. If so, replace them as you would not want to have a blow out while out riding (see ‘Kenda Tyres’).


•    Inspect the brake & gear cable housing (where applicable) for any visual signs of cracking. (If so, take your bike along to your local AvantiPlus dealer).


•    Inspect the brake & gear cable for any signs of excessive wear and / or corrosion. (If so, take your bike along to your local AvantiPlus dealer).


•    Check your brake pads for any excessive wear. If in doubt have your AvantiPlus dealer check them.


•    If you have a Dual Suspension bike, check your Fork & Shock Pressures (sag) before heading out riding. (see shock pumps)

•    Check the bearings in your headset don’t have any movement and aren’t gritty. (If they are, you’re local AvantiPlus mechanic will be able to help you out).


•    Check the bearings in your bottom bracket for wear. There should be no sideways movement, and it should be smooth and quiet. (If not, the bottom bracket may need replacing).

•    Check the suspension bearings have no movement or noise. The easiest way is to lift the bike by the saddle. (If there is, the bearing may need to be replaced at your local store).


•    Check the condition of your cleats. Often these only last a season from pre and post ride walking in your shoes. (see cleats)


•    Inspect your helmet closely for hairline cracks. Many riders are wearing helmets unaware of cracks that have developed. A cracked helmet can’t offer the same protection and will prevent you entering some events, so be sure to replace it if there are any cracks. (helmets)


•     This is a good time of the year to check all bolts are tight & have the correct torque setting. Your local AvantiPlus store is equipped with the knowhow and a torque wrench specific for this task. For those budding mechanics, check out these torque wrenches.


Of course before heading out on the first ride of summer, check you have all the riding essentials;
•    MultiTool

•    Tube

•    Nutrition

•    Pump / CO2

•    Drink

Etc…

Remember, to perform any cycle repairs see the extensive range of Tools available.