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Complete guide to bike maintenance: tips, tricks and essential tools

Bike maintenance is an essential step to guarantee optimal performance, extend the life of your two-wheeler and ensure your safety on the road or trails. Regular maintenance to be efficient and quick requires particularly suitable bicycle accessories. Whether you're a casual cyclist or a seasoned enthusiast, a regular maintenance routine is essential. In this article, discover practical advice, essential tools and key points for a bike that is always in perfect condition.

Why is bike maintenance important ?

Improved performance: A well-maintained bike offers better fluidity and responsiveness.
Extended lifespan: Components wear out less quickly with appropriate maintenance.
Increased safety: Effective brakes and a transmission in good condition reduce the risk of accidents.
Long-term savings: Preventing breakdowns often costs less than repairing or replacing damaged parts.

The key stages of bike maintenance

1. Regular Cleaning

A clean bike works best. Dirt and mud can cause premature wear of components.

Frequency: After each muddy outing or once a month for classic use.
Tools needed:
Soft brush for the frame.
Fine brush for cassette and derailleurs.
Ecological degreaser product for transmission.
Neutral soap and sponge for the frame.

2. Transmission Lubrication

The chain, chainrings and cassette require regular lubrication to reduce friction and prevent corrosion.

Frequency: Every 100 to 150 km or after cleaning.
Recommended products:
Dry oil for dry (dusty) conditions.
Wet oil for wet conditions (rain or mud).
Popular brands: Muc-Off, Finish Line, Squirt.

3. Checking the Brakes

Properly adjusted brakes are essential for your safety.

Points to check:
Condition of the pads (wear, thickness).
Alignment of calipers on discs or rims.
Tension of cables or proper functioning of hydraulic systems.
Reliable brands: Shimano, SRAM, Magura for disc brakes.

4. Tire Pressure

Correct pressure improves comfort, grip and reduces the risk of punctures.

Recommendations:
Road: 6 to 8 bars.
Gravel: 2.5 to 4 bars.
MTB: 1.8 to 2.5 bars.
Tools required: Pump with integrated pressure gauge.

5. Transmission Control

An improperly adjusted derailleur can cause chain skipping or premature wear.

Key steps:
Check the alignment of the derailleur hanger.
Adjust the high and low stops.
Tighten the cable if necessary.

6. Frame and Component Inspection

Look for cracks, dents or worn areas, especially on carbon frames. Also check the tightness of screws and bolts.
Essential tools for bike maintenance
Basic kit: Set of Allen keys, Phillips and flathead screwdrivers, multifunction pliers.
Tire levers: To repair or replace an inner tube.
Repair support: Facilitates access to different parts of the bike.
Cleaning kit: Brush, degreaser, and lubricant.
Torque wrench: Essential for carbon frames or fragile parts.

Specific advice depending on the type of bike

1. Road Bike

Favor frequent cleaning to prevent dust or salt (in winter) from becoming encrusted.
Lubricate the chain more often due to exposure to the elements.

2. Mountain biking

Pay particular attention to the suspension (fork and shock absorber). Professional maintenance is recommended every 100 hours of use.
Clean the transmission after every muddy ride.

3. Gravel

Regularly check the wheel bearings, which are often put to the test on rough roads.
Apply an oil suitable for mixed conditions.

Tips for a successful bike maintenance

Regular routine: Spend 20 minutes after each big ride to clean and inspect the bike.
Suitable products: Avoid overly aggressive degreasers which could damage the components.
Call a professional: For complex repairs such as brake bleeding or suspension maintenance.
Note the maintenance intervals: A logbook can help you keep track of the operations carried out (changing pads, lubrication, etc.).

Recommended brands for bike maintenance

Cleaning Products
Muc-Off: Wide range of cleaners, degreasers and lubricants.
Finish Line: Specialist in lubricants for all conditions.
Park Tool: Tools and accessories for complete maintenance.

Accessories and Tools

Topeak: Multifunction tools and pumps.
Pedro's: Premium cleaning brush and kits.
Feedback Sports: Robust and ergonomic repair supports.

Conclusion

Bike maintenance is an essential step for any cyclist, whether they ride in town, on the road, on gravel or on a mountain bike. By adopting a simple routine and using the right tools, you can extend the life of your bike while optimizing its performance. Invest in recognized brands like Muc-Off, Shimano, or Topeak to guarantee professional results, and don't forget: a well-maintained bike is a guarantee of pleasure on every ride.