We know that one of the main hobbies of our Subaru drivers is cycling, and we are here to help you keep your bike (and you!) in shape, thanks to our friends at Shimano, our cycling specialist partners.
Now that New Zealand has moved from COVID-19 Alert Level 4 into Level 3, we know that cyclists are enjoying expanding their riding horizons slightly further afield, within their region.
To make sure your wheels are ready at all times, check out Shimano’s three top tips to keep your bike maintained.
TIP 1: Clean your drivetrain
The drivetrain is the heart of the bicycle, and without a functioning drivetrain your bicycle cannot work. The drivetrain is made up of the chain and the parts connected to your bicycle chain (chainrings and cassette). These require specific bicycle lubricants applied to them to ensure the smooth running of the drivetrain. Without proper chain lubrication, the drivetrain will have increased wear and tear, which causes poor performance earlier than anticipated. A shiny, silver drivetrain also helps keep the parts meshing smoothly, so keep it clean!
TIP 2: Stay safe and check your tyres
Tyres are the only thing connecting your bike to the road - making them a key component to ensuring a safe, enjoyable ride. Tyres need to be checked periodically to ensure glass isn’t stuck in the rubber. This can be done by deflating the tyre and inspecting every cut or knick for glass. By having the tyre deflated you can remove the glass and ensure that you won’t have any pesky punctures on your next ride. Remember to reinflate your tyres to the recommend pressure (which can be found on the side of the tyre).
TIP 3: Check your brakes
The third component is your brakes. They’re obviously vital for stopping your bike and ensuring your safety. There are two types to look at. Rim brake and disc brake. With a rim brake calliper, you want to check the pads for metal shavings and wear. Small metal shavings can become embedded in your brake pads causing further damage to your rim and stopping braking ability. Check the pad and use a pick to ensure any debris is removed from the pad. Most rim brake pads also have a wear indicator, so check that your brake pad isn’t too close to that wear mark.
With disc brakes, check that they still hold pressure. Air may have gotten into the hydraulic system causing the brake lever to feel spongy. Keeping your bike level and giving the brakes a pump from the lever should help trapped air escape before you go riding. Ensure that there is still life in your brake pads. There is no wear indicator on a disc brake pad but make sure that there is still material on the metal surface before braking.
Once these three things have been checked properly, carry out a pre-ride check on your headset and wheel skewers to ensure they are done up tight. Put your helmet on and enjoy your ride! Remember to keep it local and stay safe!
For more ways to ensure your bike is ready to ride, check out Shimano's pre-ride bike check quick tips here:
Subaru partnered with leading fishing, cycling gear and accessories brand Shimano New Zealand for a summer road promotion entitled Last Wheel Rolling, where the first prize was a Subaru XV Sport. The lucky winner will be announced when they can pick up their Subaru prize in person, when the COVID-19 alert levels allow.
Please review the current Alert Level to ensure you are riding safely within your bubble and within your local area and region.