It’s critical to keep your bike’s parts clean and greased for optimal performance. Lubrication prevents moving parts from friction-induced wear, keeps them from freezing up, and helps prevent rust and corrosion.
But proceed with caution. Excessive lubrication can cause component damage and poor performance (excess bicycle lubricant will attract abrasive particles such as dirt). Therefore, excess bicycle lubricant should always be thoroughly wiped before the cycle is ridden, as a general rule.
When lubricating your bike, all you have to check for are the moving parts, where metal pieces rub against each other. Instead of using any old crap from your garage, use a mild, properly made bike lube. Thin oil will disperse rapidly and will not hold; a thick oil will clog and attract a lot of dirt. Pay special attention to the following areas:
The link
Your bike’s chain is the most important moving part; therefore, it requires the greatest attention and lubrication. You should clean your chain regularly if you ride in muddy or dusty circumstances.
Derailleur assemblies
When you swap gears, your front and rear derailleurs transfer the chain between gears. Two small pulley discs are included in these assemblies, mainly composed of a series of small moving elements. So that they don’t bind or get hard, keep them clean and lubed. Next, shift the gears while turning the pedals to check how the derailleurs work, and then lubricate all movable parts, such as the pivot points of the assembly, with oil.
Derailleur cables
These cables allow you to switch gears and control the function of your brakes. Unfortunately, you won’t stop correctly or switch gears smoothly if they become rusted or seized due to a lack of lubrication. And that’s a huge letdown. So check them often, especially if you’re riding in sandy or rainy weather, and re-lubricate with some drops of oil as needed.
Levers for shifting
These levers, which are situated on your handlebars, are essential for changing and braking gears. To keep the levers and barrel adjustments working properly, apply a couple of drops of oil to the movable points. Then, to avoid gathering dust, brush away any excess oil.
Brake assemblies
Apply a few drops of oil on any movable components you observe on the brake assembly (attached to the frame at your back and front wheels). If you’re having difficulties identifying these pivot points, press the brake levers and see where they shift. Lubricate anywhere these parts come into contact with one another. Avoid getting any grease on the brake pads at all costs. It will be more challenging to come to a sudden stop as a result of this.
Pedals
Apply a couple of oil drops to the pedal section that connects to the crank arm. Concentrate the oil on the rotating element that spins around the spindle and attaches to the crank arm once more.
How often should the parts be lubricated?
Since there are so many variables, it’s nearly impossible to say, but the usual rule is once a month, possibly slightly more in inclement weather. With practice, you’ll detect when the pieces aren’t moving smoothly and react accordingly. Don’t feel obligated to apply bicycle lubricant to your bike every time you wash it; in the long run, this will only cause more filth to adhere to the parts.
If you want to keep your bicycle going for a long time, it’s critical to keep it well-maintained. The chain is the most vital component of the bike that must be maintained regularly. You can adequately repair your bike chain and keep it working consistently and smoothly with the outlined techniques. Also, read Why is Second Hand Bike a Good Purchase?
