As the hotter season approaches, many people will replace their vehicles with bicycles. It is a great way of minimizing one’s transportation expenses and getting daily exercise. However, if you have not been using your bicycle for a while, there are certain maintenance issues that you should take care of before hitting the road again.
Here are the bicycle maintenance tips that will help you avoid an accident and prevent you from getting in one.
Check The Brakes
If you are unable to slow down, you will not be able to control your bicycle. Always test your brakes in your backyard before going out for a ride. Check both brakes, and see if they are both working properly. If one of the brakes is not properly working, consider buying a replacement or changing the worn brake pads. Also, look for stretched out cables.
If you are not handy with tools and are not sure how to check or replace your brakes, bring your bicycle to a bicycle service shop. If you continue to ride your bicycle even with your brakes in bad shape, you risk getting involved in an accident. And if you do end up injured, potentially as a result of another person’s negligent actions, speak with Dallas bicycle accident attorneys. Who knows, maybe you are eligible to file a claim and obtain compensation for your injuries. Call us today to find out.
Tire Pressure
Are your tires looking good? Once you check the pressure in them, you will have a clear picture of whether you should go out for a ride or find a way to blow some air into your tires. If either of your two tires is not fully inflated, be sure to take care of them before you take your bicycle for a spin. Also, check:
- If your wheels are spinning in alignment
- If your wheel levers are fully tightened
- If all spokes are in place
Handle Bar and Steering Components
Another thing that you have to inspect is your steering wheel. Check both handlebars (by turning them to each side) and see if they are facing the same direction as your steering wheel. If they are turning at the same rate, you are good to go; if not, you may have to tighten your handlebars. Simply loosen them up with an Allen wrench, stand in front of your bike, line the handlebars correctly and then re-tighten them.
Cleaning the Chain, Applying Oil
Last but not least is your chain. Be sure that it always has enough oil and that it is spinning properly. If anything is blocking the chain (whether dust, mud or rust), try and clean it as much as possible. Apply some oil to keep the spinning smooth.
After that, go and enjoy the ride. And remember that if you do end up in a bicycle accident, it may not be your fault. If that happens, contact lawyers and find out whether or not you are eligible to file a claim and obtain compensation for your injuries.
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