One of the advantages of fixed gear bikes is their low maintenance requirements. However, that doesn’t mean they don’t need any maintenance at all. Simple upkeep can greatly enhance your riding experience and extend the lifespan of the parts. These maintenance tasks are easy enough for anyone to do, so why not give them a try?
The primary maintenance tasks you can do at home are 'inflating tires,' 'tightening bolts,' and 'chain cleaning.' You don’t need expensive tools or chemicals, so having a basic set handy can be really convenient
Inflating Tires
The easiest maintenance task is inflating the tires. Fixed gear and road bikes typically use Presta valves (also known as French valves). They allow for high air pressure but also tend to lose air somewhat quickly. It’s not necessary to inflate them daily, but doing it weekly is ideal.
When choosing a pump, look for one that is 'compatible with Presta valves,' 'has a gauge,' and is a 'high-pressure floor pump.' The appropriate air pressure is often indicated on the side of the tire, so use that as a guide when inflating.
Tightening Bolts
Bike parts are prone to gradual loosening due to vibrations from regular use. This loosening can be subtle and hard to notice. Therefore, regular checks and retightening of bolts are crucial for bike maintenance.A simple yet effective method to check for looseness is to gently lift and drop the bike. A well-maintained bike should only bounce on its tires, but any unusual vibration noises can indicate loose parts. Incorporating this quick check into your pre-ride routine is a great habit to develop.
Pay special attention to areas like 'the handlebars and stem,' 'wheels,' 'saddle region,' and 'crankset.'
It's important to note that bike parts have specific torque requirements. At BROTURES, we use torque wrenches to ensure proper tightening. These tools can be expensive, so for home maintenance, a basic Allen key for a general tightness check is sufficient. Affordable torque wrench sets are also available for those who want to be more precise.
TNI Torque Sleeve Set (comes with a pouch)
If you ever have concerns about any parts, don't hesitate to bring your bike to the shop for a check-up.
Chain Cleaning
Chain cleaning can be done in various ways, but I'll share a method that’s easy to execute at home. You will need:
Parts cleaner
Chain cleaner
Rags or towels
Toilet paper
Chain oil
A stand that lifts the rear wheel off the ground
Begin by spraying the parts cleaner onto a rag, and use it to remove the major dirt like grit and grease from the chain and gears. Remember, it’s better to spray the cleaner on the rag rather than directly on the bike or its parts.
Also, give a quick wipe to the chainring and cog.
Once you’ve scrubbed off most of the dirt with the rag, use the chain cleaner to dissolve and remove the finer, more stubborn dirt.
The next step involves wrapping toilet paper around the gear and rotating it. This helps in cleaning hard-to-reach spots, such as between the chain links and gear teeth. A word of caution: be careful not to get your fingers caught. Rotate slowly and safely!
After you’re satisfied with the cleaning, rinse off any residue from the chain cleaner and trapped toilet paper bits using water or more parts cleaner. This technique also effectively cleans hard-to-reach areas.
The final step is applying chain oil. Ideally, you should add one drop of oil per chain link and let it penetrate. This might be the most time-consuming part, but it's crucial for maintaining smooth chain movement.
Rotate the rear wheel to distribute the oil evenly, and then use a rag to wipe off any excess. This maintenance routine is straightforward and feasible, right? It’s even easier with a stand that lifts the rear wheel. If you don’t have one, simply flipping the bike upside down works too.