Four tips to keep you safe on your bike this summer

Bike and gear maintenance tips for all levels.

If you’re new to riding, a commuter or even a pro, you’ll appreciate these tips for maintaining your bike and other gear. We’ve been riding regularly for the last few summers and learned a few things that are worth sharing.

Four general maintenance tips 

1/ Inflate your tires

Don’t be fooled by touch. Add air each time you ride and use a gage to ensure they are inflated to the PSI stated on the tire.

2/ Keep your chain oiled

The rule for oiling your chain is similar to changing the oil in your car. The more you ride, the more it needs to be oiled. If you ride everyday, oil your chain once a week. If you ride once a week, oil your chain once a month. Oiling the chain every 4-5 rides will ensure you have a smooth ride.

3/ Check your spare tube

If you’ve been carrying the same tube in your repair kit for a while check it for cracks and wear marks. Rubber breaks down over time.

4/ Periodically replace your shorts  

All shorts and tights that get worn and washed regularly eventually get thin. Be sure to replace them periodically so that you don’t give the riders behind you an eye full. Let’s just say we’ve seen more than underpants on our rides lately.

Gift ideas for the regular riders   

1/ Upgrade their tool kit or treat them to a workshop that will give them more confidence on the road.

2/ Give them a gift card for their bike shop to help with bike maintenance, upgrades or a new bike.

3/ Refresh their essentials: shorts/tights, tees, jerseys, gloves and water bottles. Basically everything that gets grungy with regular use.

4/ Book an adventure vacation near or far and share an experience of a lifetime.