How to maintain a bicycle? A step-by-step guide

Every chain rattle, derailleur grind, or delayed brake response is a signal that the bike demands attention. Regular maintenance isn't just about aesthetics — it's safety, riding comfort, and real savings on servicing. In this guide, we'll show how to keep a bike in excellent condition without workshop visits for every minor issue.

Why does regular maintenance really pay off?

A well-maintained bike is much more than a gleaming frame. Above all, it's efficiency and safety. When the chain runs smoothly, the transmission operates precisely, and brakes respond instantly, every route brings more joy. Besides, neglected maintenance is a faster path to component replacement. A dirty chain acts like sandpaper on the cassette and derailleurs, shortening their lifespan by up to half. In practice, this means several hundred pounds more annually on parts. Regular cleaning and lubrication is a simple way to avoid these expenses.

A properly cared-for bike also retains its value. If you ever consider selling it, technical and visual condition directly translates to price. A potential buyer will immediately notice whether the equipment was treated with respect or neglected.

Bike cleaning — where it all begins

Dirt, sand, and deposits are the main enemies of every component. Even if you mainly ride on tarmac, dust and microscopic contaminants penetrate everywhere — into the chain, derailleurs, bearings. Off-road, the problem is even greater — mud and sand attack all moving parts.

Bike cleaning needn't be time-consuming. If you do it regularly — for example after every muddy outing or fortnightly with normal use — a few minutes is enough. The most convenient are products that do the work for you. For instance, with OC1 Bike Cleaner in the 2-in-1 trigger version, simply spray the entire bike with foam, wait 2–3 minutes, then rinse with a stream of water. No scrubbing, no risk of scratches. The formula is pH neutral, so safe for all materials — paintwork, carbon, aluminium, plastic, and rubber.

After washing, it's worth wiping the frame with a soft microfibre cloth. This quickly dries the surface and prevents streaks or hard water marks forming.

Chain and drivetrain lubrication

The chain is the heart of the bicycle drivetrain. When it runs smoothly, every pedal stroke translates into effective forward motion. When neglected — clicking, cracking, jerking, and rapid wear. Good lubricant isn't optional, it's essential.

Before applying lubricant, the chain must be clean. Old, dirty lubricant mixes with sand and dust, creating an abrasive paste. That's why all deposits must first be removed. A specialist cleaner works best — a product like OC1 Chain Cleaner in aerosol form instantly degreases and removes even baked-on contamination. Simply spray the chain, wait a moment, and wipe with a clean cloth.

Only onto a clean chain do we apply lubricant. The choice depends on riding conditions. For dry, dusty routes, Chain Lube Dry works ideally — it doesn't attract dust and creates a dry protective layer. If you more often ride in rain or mud, Chain Lube Wet is a better solution, as it doesn't wash off with water and protects the chain from corrosion. For the most demanding riders who value maximum efficiency and minimal contamination, there's also Chain Lube Wax — a wax-based formula that reduces drivetrain wear by up to 80%.

The lubrication technique is simple: one drop per chain roller, then several crank rotations to spread the lubricant, and finally wiping away the excess. Too much lubricant isn't a good thing — excess attracts dirt and creates a sticky layer that does more harm than good.

Brake inspection and maintenance

Brakes are a safety matter — there's no getting around it. Effective braking in every situation is fundamental. Regularly checking pad condition, disc cleanliness, and cable tension should become habit.

Brake pads wear gradually. Check the thickness of the friction material — if less than 1–2 mm remains, it's time for replacement. Brake discs must be clean and degreased. Even a microscopic trace of oil or grease drastically reduces braking force and causes unpleasant squealing. If you suspect something has got onto the discs, it's worth using an aerosol degreaser — for example, OC1 Brake Cleaner instantly removes all deposits and leaves no traces.

With cable brakes, it's also worth checking cable tension. Over time, they can stretch, causing brakes to respond with delay. Adjustment is straightforward — on most systems, simply turn the barrel adjuster at the brake or lever. If you feel you must squeeze the lever hard for the brake to work, that's a sign something needs adjusting.

Derailleur and drivetrain system maintenance

Precise gear changing is the result of a well-adjusted drivetrain system. If the derailleur delays shifting up or down, or the chain skips between sprockets, it means the system needs adjustment.

First check cable tension. As with brakes, cables can stretch. Gently tightening the barrel adjuster at the derailleur often suffices to restore optimal precision. It's also worth checking whether the derailleur is aligned parallel to the cassette — in some cases, its position needs correcting using the mounting bolt.

Derailleurs work best when clean and lightly lubricated at pivot points. Too much lubricant attracts dirt, so it's better to be sparing.

Tyres — pressure, condition, and inspection

Tyres are the bike's only contact point with the ground, so their condition directly affects safety, comfort, and riding efficiency. Under-inflated tyres increase rolling resistance, meaning pedalling requires more effort. Conversely, over-inflated tyres lose grip and are more prone to punctures.

Regular pressure checks are fundamental. It's best to have your own pump with a gauge and check pressure before every longer ride. Remember that tyres lose air naturally — even 1–2 PSI weekly. Tyre manufacturers always state the recommended pressure range on the tyre sidewall — stick to these values.

It's also worth regularly examining the tread and tyre sidewalls. Deep cuts, cracks, or protruding elements signal that the tyre is reaching its end. If you use a tubeless system, check whether the sealant inside the tyre has dried out — replacing it every few months is good practice that protects against sudden pressure loss.

Off-season bike storage

If you're putting the bike away for winter or an extended break, a few simple steps are enough to find it in ideal condition come spring. Above all, clean it thoroughly — don't leave mud or dirt that can cause corrosion. After washing, it's worth lubricating all moving parts, particularly the chain, derailleurs, and brake cables. Lubricant creates a protective layer that prevents rusting.

Before storing the bike, inflate the tyres to maximum recommended pressure. This prevents deformation that can occur when standing for long periods on under-inflated wheels. Ideally, hang the bike or support it so it doesn't rest on the tyres throughout.

Storage location matters. Best is somewhere dry and away from direct sunlight. Moisture promotes corrosion, whilst UV damages plastic and rubber components.

Seasonal preparation for riding

When the time comes for first outings after a break, it's worth spending a moment checking the bike. Above all, examine the tyres — check pressure, tread condition, and sidewalls. Test brakes and derailleurs — does everything work smoothly and precisely? If something grinds, clicks, or doesn't respond as it should, spend a moment on adjustment.

It's also good to re-lubricate the chain, particularly if the bike has stood for longer. Old lubricant may have thickened or dried out. Quick cleaning and a fresh layer of lubricant will make the first rides pure pleasure.

Summary

Regular bicycle maintenance doesn't require specialist skills or much time. Just a few simple tasks performed systematically are enough for equipment to serve for years without serious failures. A clean bike, well-lubricated chain, functioning brakes, and properly inflated tyres are the foundation of safe and comfortable riding. And when you treat your equipment with respect, it repays you with reliability and joy from every outing.