Keeping your road bike running smoothly doesn't take much, but a few regular checks can save you from unnecessary repairs and problems out on the road. Whether you're commuting around Christchurch, riding the bunch on Saturday morning or heading out for a longer weekend ride, here's what we'd recommend.

Before Every Ride

Road bikes are generally straightforward to maintain, but tyres and brakes deserve a quick check before heading out.

• Tyres: Check your tyre pressure and inspect the tread and sidewalls for cuts, embedded glass or damage. Road tyres have relatively low air volume, so even a small loss of air can make a noticeable difference to pressure.
• Brakes: Squeeze both brake levers to make sure they feel firm and consistent. Check for excessive pad wear or rubbing.
• Wheels: Make sure your quick-release skewers or thru-axles are properly secured and the wheels spin freely.
• General Check: Look for loose components, unusual noises or anything that doesn't feel quite right.

Regular Chain and Drivetrain Care

A clean, properly lubricated chain makes a noticeable difference to shifting and helps extend the life of your cassette and chainrings.

Wipe dirt and old lubricant from the drivetrain, clean the chain when needed and apply a suitable bicycle chain lubricant. After applying it, wipe away the excess so it doesn't attract more dirt.

Avoid using general-purpose sprays such as CRC 5.56 or motorcycle chain lubricants as a substitute for proper bicycle chain lube. They aren't necessarily suited to bicycle drivetrains and can leave a messy residue.

If you're riding regularly, particularly in wet conditions, it's also worth checking chain wear. Replacing a worn chain before it damages the cassette can save you a fair bit of money.

Our advice: If you're unsure which chain lubricant to use, drop into Chain Reaction. We'll help you find one that suits your riding and show you how to apply it properly.

Every Six Months – A Good Time for a Tune-Up

For regular road riders, six months is a sensible time to have the bike checked over. High-mileage riders and daily commuters may need attention sooner, particularly when riding through winter.

Our General Service covers the important safety checks and adjustments, including gear indexing, brake alignment, drivetrain inspection and checking wheels and key components.

Chain wear is worth paying attention to at this stage. Depending on mileage, riding conditions and maintenance, some riders may already need a replacement chain.

Our advice: Don't wait until the gears start skipping or the brakes feel poor. A straightforward tune-up can often prevent more expensive repairs later.

Annual Servicing – Give the Bike a Proper Check

If you're riding regularly, an Annual Service is a good opportunity to give your bike a more thorough inspection and catch wear that isn't always obvious during everyday riding.

Our Annual Service includes a thorough drivetrain clean, brake and gear checks, inspection of the hubs, bottom bracket and headset, wheel checks and other adjustments as required.

Bottom brackets, headsets and wheel bearings can develop play or roughness over time, particularly if you're riding in wet conditions. Catching these problems early can help prevent damage to other components.

Depending on the condition of your bike, additional work such as bearing replacement, new cables, brake pads or a brake bleed may be recommended.

Our advice: If you're hearing persistent clicking, creaking or grinding, get it checked. Small noises can be the first sign of a component that needs attention.

Need More Maintenance Advice?

For more information on chain care, tyre wear, brakes and general bike maintenance, read our Bike Maintenance Basics Guide.

Or bring your bike into Chain Reaction and have a chat with our workshop team. We can help you work out what needs attention and what can wait.

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Find us at 4/218 Moorhouse Avenue, Christchurch, with over 200 free car parks.