1. Clean your bike.
A clean bike extends the life of all its components, just as a clean car lasts longer.
2. Inspect your brake system.
Brakes are vital components of all bikes because they provide control over the speed you travel. Controlling speed reduces the likelihood of being in an accident.
3. Take care of your wheels.
Wheels (rims) hold your tyres in place and provide stability and smoothness while riding. Your bike would not move without rims because they allow consistent contact between the tyres and the road surface.
4. Inspect the drivetrain.
A bike’s drivetrain includes the pedals, chain, chainring, derailleur (the device that moves the chain to make riding easier or harder) and rear wheel cassette (all the little teeth in the center of the rear wheel). The drivetrain is important because it transfers the power generated by the rider's legs to the rear wheel. This transfer of power provides the force that moves the bike.
5. Check the tyres.
If your bike has been sitting for a while it's likely the tyres are flat or low on air. Tyres lose air over time so they may not have a leak, but listen for escaping air as you inflate them. Invest in a quality air pump with a wide base to stand on, and large gauges that are easy to read. Stick to the tyre manufacturer's recommended pressure level.
6. Add lubricant.
Oil lubricant coats the chain and other components of the drivetrain, helping them last longer and work more efficiently. Lube also reduces accumulation of dirt and grime, helping to increase performance of the moving parts
