Our bikes need a lot of care and attention to ensure a safe ride. As a company offering bike tours in the Canadian Rockies and beyond, we know just how important bike maintenance is. Whether you’re riding in the city or you’re joining us on one of our breathtaking tours, these maintenance tips below will help you be a safer rider and prevent premature wear on your bike.
Bike tours Canada
1. Always do a safety check
It’s easy to get into the habit of assuming that our bike is always in good condition. We hop on our bikes and ride off without a thought. If you travel quite frequently with your bike or you’re prepping for one of our guided bike tours, it’s important to do a quick safety check. This helps you detect minor issues before they become bigger and helps you avoid a sudden malfunction.
2. Keep the bike clean and the chain lubed
Cleaning your bike is a simple part of maintenance but makes a big difference over time. Dirt and grime from daily use or after a long bike tour accumulates and can cause corrosion and rust. We recommend cleaning your bike before and after a bike tour and once every 20-25 rides. Avoid using a high-pressure wash as this can inadvertently remove some of the lube on the chain. A spray and a cloth will do the trick!
After cleaning the drivetrain, be sure to reapply the chain lube. Keeping the chain well lubricated ensures a smoother ride. Without it, the shifting might be affected. This is especially important before an extensive bike tour in Canada or in Spain where we experience all kinds of weather.
3. Check the tire pressure
Your bike’s tire pressure depends on the size of the tires, the riding conditions, and the road surface. We recommended checking the tire pressure before every rides – you’d be surprised how much air can be lost within a matter of days! If you’re unsure, check the manufacturer’s guide for the recommended tire pressure on your specific make and model.
4. Tighten nuts and bolts
Although rare, a bike falling apart during a ride is extremely hazardous. If your bike is making squeaking noises or it’s underperforming, check each nut and bolt carefully to make sure they’re tightened properly specially both of your wheels axles. Additionally, this should be a part of your daily safety check or before an extensive cycling adventure through the Canadian Rockies mountain parks.
5. Test the brakes
Last but not definitely not least, test the brakes to make sure they are functioning as expected. Examine the wear indicator on the brake pads and replace them if they’re beyond the indicated line, ensure that the front section of the pad touches the braking surface first, and wipe the disc brakes clean if your bike has them. Carefully inspect the brake cable to make sure that it’s securely connected and that there is no fraying. Cables should always be replaced when they are worn to keep you safe on the road
