how to do it

Hobbies & Leisure

TM

Bike Maintenance

published by Barnes & Noble

It doesnt have to be a bumpy ride.

Whether you have a secondhand one-speed or a $5,000 mountain bike, regular
maintenance will help you ride safely and avoid the costs of more serious repairs
down the line. Head out on the road or trail with:
A guide to all the major parts of a typical bike
Step-by-step instructions on fixing flat tires, brakes, chains, and more
Tips on finding and dealing with a professional bike mechanic

Bike Maintenance Basics

Inspecting and adjusting your bike regularly may seem like
a chore, but it will save you huge hassles in the long run.
Bike maintenance helps you identify and resolve potentially
hazardous safety problems, from loose bolts to leaking tires
to faulty brakes. Moreover, prolonged neglect of your bike
can lead to major, expensive repairs. Performing routine
maintenance is the best way to avoid these.

Maintenance level: Low. Because of their simple

design, cruisers are often the most trouble-free of the
three types of bikes.

Maintenance level: Medium. Road bikes require more

maintenance than cruisers because of their complex
gearing systems and thin, flat-prone tires, but less
maintenance than mountain bikes since they usually
are ridden only on smooth pavement.

Mountain Bikes
Mountain bikes are big, sturdy bikes designed to be ridden
off-road, on trails or other rough terrain.

Maintenance vs. Repairs

Routine maintenance requires just a few minutes of inspecting and adjusting your bike every few rides. Also, you should
do a maintenance check after each very long ride you take.
Youll need a few inexpensive tools, many of which you may
already own (see Bicycle Maintenance Tools).
The maintenance tasks explained in this guide should
prevent, or at least delay, a trip to the repair shop. That said,
sometimes major problems do arise that will require the
services of a professional bike mechanic.

When to Call a Bike Mechanic

Road Bikes
Road bikes are slim, lightweight bikes designed exclusively
for riding or racing on asphalt and other hard surfaces. The
classic American 10-speed bike is an early version of todays road bikes, which have been popularized by the racing
cyclists of the Tour de France.

If youre performing routine maintenance and run into a

problem that youre not comfortable addressing yourself,
go to a professional bike mechanic (for guidance on hiring a
bike mechanic, see How to Find a Bike Mechanic).

Types of Bikes
The maintenance instructions throughout this guide apply to
all types of bikes. Even so, you need to know which type of
bike you have in order to be aware of specific maintenance
steps your bike may need. And if you ever need repairs, youll
want to seek out a mechanic who specializes in repairing
bikes of your type. The three main types of bikes are:
Cruisers
Road bikes
Mountain bikes

Cruisers
Cruisers have a distinctive, old-fashioned body shape.
Special features: Often these bikes have just one gear
and coaster brakes, which you operate by pushing the
pedal backward to slow down.
Typical use: Cruisers bikes upright seating, wide
saddles (seats), and broad, curved handlebars make
them ideal for short, around-town rides on flat terrain.

Special features: All of a road bikes signature traits

result from one goalto make these bikes move as fast
as possible over pavement. As a result, road bikes have
thin frames, very skinny tires, and a narrow saddle.
They also usually have the highest number of gears
of the three types of bikes (typically 2430 gears).
Road bikes use hand brakes, which are operated by
squeezing a manual brake lever.
Typical use: Road bikes are for bikers intent on
taking long trips on pavement. Due to the premium
these bikes place on speed, theyre often much less
comfortable to ride than cruisers or mountain bikes.

Special features: Most mountain bikes have

suspension systems that provide shock-absorbing
cushioning when riding over rough surfaces. Probably
the most noticeable features of mountain bikes in
addition to these suspension systems are their thick
frames and fat, deeply treaded tires.
Typical use: Most riders buy mountain bikes with
the intention of riding on rocky trails or other rough
terrain, though some riders also use mountain bikes
for pavement riding as well, due to their stable,
comfortable ride.
Maintenance level: High. Since mountain bikes get
banged around more than any other type of bike,
they tend to require the most maintenance. They also
contain intricate special parts, such as their elaborate
suspension systems, that often require extra attention.

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Parts of a Typical Bike
To learn basic bike maintenance, you first need to know the main parts of a typical bike, each
of which is described below. Some of these components dont need regular maintenance,
and some are found on only certain types of bikes. For instance, since cruisers have no
gearing systems, they have far fewer parts than road or mountain bikes.

Pedals

3
19
1

17

18
18

15
14

10

12

13

11

9
7

Frame, Handlebars, and Saddle (Seat)

1. Frame: Although frames come in slightly different shapes and a variety of materials,
all frames do the same thing: serve as the bikes skeleton, supporting your weight and
holding together the bikes components.
2. Forks: The fork-shaped parts of the frame hold the front and rear wheels in place.
Forks often contain quick release mounts that allow you to remove the wheels quickly
for maintenance.
3. Handlebars: These may extend straight outward (as on mountain bikes), curve back
toward the seat (as on cruisers), or drop down (as on road bikes, such as the one
pictured above). You hold the grips at the end of the handlebars, which are usually
covered with grip tape or with rubber or foam.
4. Saddle (seat): Most saddles can be tilted (forward or backward) or adjusted (up or
down) to accommodate your body type and personal preference.

Wheels and Tires

5. Wheels: The wheels hold the
bikes tires in place and impact
the stability, smoothness, and
straightness of the ride. Though
wheels dont require regular
maintenance, they can become
bent or off-center, causing the bike
to wobble or pull in one direction.
A process known as truing, usually
done by a bike mechanic, can
resolve this problem.

9. Pedal: Metal or plastic pedals support your feet as you ride. Pedals may allow your
feet to move freely, hold each foot in place with toe clips (explained below), or hold
the foot with a clipless locking system. If you use clipless pedals, you need to buy
special cycling cleats, which have soles with bolts that lock into place on the clipless
pedals. These cleat bolts must be tight before ridingloose bolts can cause you to slip
out of the pedals and lose control.
10. Toe clips: Toe clips are small webs of fabric or plastic attached to the pedals that slip
over your toes to hold your feet in place. Be sure your toe clips allow you to release
your feet without struggling, in case you need to dismount your bike suddenly.
11. Cranks: These metal arms connect the pedals to the frame. Cranks rarely require
maintenance.

Drive Train

16

6. Rims: The main hoop, or circular part of the wheel, is usually made of aluminum.
7. Spokes: The thin metal bars that stabilize the inside of the wheel converge in a metal
device at the center of the wheel, known as the hub.
8. Tires: Tires can be slick (smooth with a light tread) or knobby (textured with a deeper
tread). Each tire contains an internal rubber tube that is inflated with air by using a bike
pump. Bike pumps connect to a valve thats attached to the tube.

12. Chain rings (or crank set): These consist

of one to three large, circular, toothed gears
attached to the pedal cranks. The chain rings
mesh with the chain to turn the wheels and
propel the bike as you pedal. They also hold
the bike in a particular gear. All bicycle gears,
including those of the chain ring, are described
as high or low based on their size, with larger
gears lower than smaller, higher gears.
13. Chain: Transfers power from the chain ring
to the rear gear set to turn the back wheel. Before each ride, check to see that the
chain fits snugly onto the chain ring. Also look to make sure the chain isnt stretched or
broken. Lube the chain after every few rides.
14. Rear gear set: These toothed gears are mounted at the hub of the back wheel.
15. Front derailleur: Derailleurs are metal mechanisms that derail, or shift, the chain
through the bikes various gears. The front derailleur moves the chain among the
various chain rings. If changing from one chain ring gear to another becomes difficult,
consult a bike mechanic to have your front derailleur aligned.
16. Rear derailleur: The bicycles most delicate mechanical component, the rear derailleur
shifts the chain among the rear gear set. If it becomes bent inward, a bike mechanic
will have to repair it. If it simply stops functioning well, you may be able to fix it on your
own (see How to Adjust a Rear Derailleur).
17. Gear levers: These small levers, used to change the bikes gears, are typically located
in the middle of the handlebars or near the ends of the handlebars under the grips.
Gear levers rarely need maintenance.

Brakes
18. Brakes: Just like those on a car, bike brakes apply friction to the wheels to stop the
bike. Hand brakes, the most popular type of brakes, consist of brake levers attached
to the handlebars, which are connected by a brake cable to the brake clamps, which
house rubber brake pads, on the wheels. On bikes with rim brakes, the clamps
squeeze the pads against the rim of the wheel when the brake is engaged; on bikes
with disc brakes, the clamps apply friction against a metal disc mounted on the wheel
hubs. On both rim and disc brakes, the front brake is engaged by the left brake lever,
the rear brake by the right brake lever. Coaster brakes stop the rear wheel when you
pedal backward and are found mostly on cruisers and kids bikes.
19. Brake cable: These cables link the brake levers to the brake clamps. Though brake
cables rarely require maintenance, they must be in working order for the brake levers
to function. They can be adjusted to tweak the responsiveness of the brakes.

The information contained in this and every Quamut guide is intended only for the general interest of
its readers and should not be used as a basis for making medical, investment, legal or other important
decisions. Though Quamut makes efforts to create accurate guides, editorial and research mistakes can
occur. Quamut cannot, therefore, guarantee the accuracy of its guides. We disclaim all warranties, including
warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose, and must advise you to use our guides at
your own risk. Quamut and its employees are not liable for loss of any nature resulting from the use of or
reliance upon our charts and the information found therein.

Photo Credits: Page 1: Jo Ann Snover/Shutterstock (photo 1), Courtesy of Trek Bicycle Corporation (photos 2-4); Page 2: Courtesy of Trek Bicycle Corporation (photo 1), Scott B. Rosen/Bill Smith
Studio (photos 2-3), Page 3: Scott B. Rosen/Bill Smith Studio (photos 1-14), Saveliev Alexey Alexsandrovich/Shutterstock (photo 15); Page 4: Scott B. Rosen/Bill Smith Studio (all photos); Page 5:
Scott B. Rosen/Bill Smith Studio (all photos); Page 6: Scott B. Rosen/Bill Smith Studio. Illustrations by Precision Graphics.

www.quamut.com
Copyright 2007 Quamut
All rights reserved.
Quamut is a registered trademark of
Barnes & Noble, Inc.
10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
Printed in the United States
Writer: Maureen Foley

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Quick Releases

Presta and Schrader Valves

Tools Youll Need Occasionally

Quick releases are manual levers designed to allow you to

remove commonly adjusted bike parts quickly and easily,
without tools. Not all bikes have quick releases. Those that
do usually have them on the wheels and saddle.

All bike tubes have either Presta valves or Schrader valves.

These valves differ in shape (Prestas are longer and thinner
than Schraders), so not all bike pumps work with both types.
The main difference between Presta and Schrader valves is
the way you open them to deflate the tube:

Youll need these tools to resolve minor problems that may

arise after a few weeks of intense use or a few months of
regular use. All of these should be available at your local
hardware store.

Wheel quick releases: Let you remove the bolt

that secures the wheel to the frame without using a
screwdriver
Saddle quick release: Lets you move the saddle up or
down or remove it entirely without using a screwdriver

Presta valves: Push down directly on the top of the

valves tip.
Schrader valves: Push down on the metal pin inside
the valve.

2
3

Presta valve
wheel quick release

saddle quick release

Quick Release Safety and Security

Safety: Be sure to reclamp quick releases tightly after
you adjust them. Loose quick releases can cause
saddles to shift and wheels to disengage from the
frame while youre riding.
Security: Unfortunately, quick releases make it easy
for thieves to remove wheels and saddles. Always
chain your wheels and remove your saddle when your
bike is parked.

Bike Maintenance Tools

The following list includes all the tools and supplies youll
need to keep your bike in top shape during a years worth of
regular riding and maintenance.

Tools Youll Need Frequently

These tools are crucial for everyday bike maintenance and
roadside situations. All of them are sold at local bike shops.
These tools are so essential that some cyclists store them
on their bikes in a little storage pouch below their seat. At
the very least, you should bring a pump and patch kit (or
extra tube) along on every long ride you take.

Bike Pump
Used to inflate the tubes within bike tires. There are two
main types of bike pumps available:

Schrader valve

Lubricant (Bike Lube)

A multipurpose oil lubricant used to lubricate
all of a bicycles moving metal parts. White
Lightning and Finish Line are specially formulated for bikes.

Bike Grease
A pasty form of bike lube used
to lubricate nonmoving metal
bike parts, such as seat posts.
Always use grease formulated
especially for bikes.

Citrus Solvent

1. Wooden mallet: When you need a little extra oomph

to separate two bike parts, a wooden mallet will do the
trick and wont damage bendable metal parts.
2. Screwdrivers: Youll need several sizes of Phillips and
flat-head screwdrivers.
3. Pliers: Great for adjusting brakes and derailleurs. Both
standard and needle-nose pliers are helpful.
4. Allen wrenches: Used to adjust parts of the bike that
use hexagonal-shaped Allen screws, such as brake
pads and nonquick-release saddles. Look for a tool
that houses several sizes of Allen wrenches in one unit.

How to Check and Inflate Bike Tires

A degreasing cleaner useful for cleaning the

chain and other areas of the bike that collect
grease and dirt. Its less caustic than other
solvents but removes grease effectively. Buy
it at hardware stores.

Bike tires gradually lose air with normal use, reducing handling and responsiveness. Check the air in your tires before
any long ride and at least once a week, even if youre only
riding in town.

Patch Kit

To check the tire pressure on your bike:

A small, portable kit for repairing flat tires on the road. A good
patch kit will come in a waterresistant container and include
at least two tire patches, patching glue, and a small piece of
sandpaper.

Tire Iron
Hand pumps:
These pumps
are small and
portable but
often require
more effort than
floor pumps to
use because
you have to hold
them in your
hands as you
operate them.
Floor pumps:
Larger and
hand pump
floor pump
nonportable, floor
pumps rest on the floor and are generally faster and
take less effort to use than hand pumps.

A tool for removing

a deflated bike tube
from between the rim
and tire. Tire irons can
be made of plastic
or metal and usually
come in pairs.

Always carry a hand pump with you on long rides. Though

you can use a hand pump to inflate tires on the road, not
all hand pumps have the leverage youll need to inflate the
tire to capacity, so having a floor pump for use at home is
essential. Be sure the pump you buy includes a psi (poundsper-square-inch) meter, which indicates the tire pressure
as you inflate the tire. Buy pumps that are compatible with
both Presta and Schrader valves, which work as follows.

Multi-Tool

Extra Tubes
Replacement tubes for flats
that patch kits are unable to
fix. For long rides, always carry
at least one spare tire tube.
Make sure the tube is sized
properly for your bikes tires
(tire and tube size info is printed on the tires outer sidewall).

An all-purpose tool used

to tighten and loosen the
various bolts and fasteners on a typical bike. A
good multi-tool should
include a variety of hexhead wrenches, a Phillips and flat-head screwdriver, and a
chain-breaking tool.

How to Check Tire Pressure

1. Squeeze the tires sidewalls (side edges) toward each
other as hard as you can. (Dont squeeze the part of
the tire that touches the road, which tends to be rigid
and can mask low air pressure.)
2. If the sidewalls squeeze together easily, the air
pressure is low, and the tires need to be inflated. If
the sidewalls resist being pushed in, the air pressure
should be fine.

How to Inflate Bike Tires

Unless youre filling up a patched or new tube after getting a
flat on the road, always inflate your tires with a floor pump,
not a hand pump. The process below works the same way
for Presta and Schrader valves.
1. Prop your bike against a sturdy wall.
2. Rotate one wheel so the valve is parallel to the ground,
on the side away from the main part of the bike frame.
This position (circled below) lets you access the valve
easily without the fork getting in the way.

3. Place the socket on the appropriate end of the pump

(Presta or Schrader type) directly over the valve. If the
tire is especially low on air, the valve may wobble or
bend as you try to put the pump socket in place. If this
happens, make the valve stand up rigidly by placing

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1. your thumb on the outside of the tire just behind the
valve. Since the tire is low on air, you should be able to
feel and support the base of the valve through the tire.

pump lever
2. Some pumps have a small lever you
have to lift so that air flows through the
pump into the tire. If your pump has a
lever, pull it up once youve covered
the valve with the pumps socket.
3. Check the tires sidewalls, where the
tires maximum psi number is written.
4. Begin pumping air into the tire (this is
easiest to do if youre standing up).
5. Watch the psi meter as you pump, and stop pumping
once the meter reaches the maximum psi. Overfilled
tires can pop or become more prone to flats, so never
inflate beyond the maximum psi.
6. If your pump has a lever, press it back down and pull
the socket directly away from the valve to release the
pump from the tire. Otherwise, just pull the pump away
from the valve.
If a tire deflates quickly after youve refilled it with air, it
means that the tube has been punctured and needs to be
replaced (see How to Fix a Flat Bike Tire).

How to Fix a Flat Bike Tire

Fixing a flat is one of the most common bike maintenance
tasks.

Step 2: Remove the Tube

Step 7: Reattach the Tire to the Rim

1. Deflate the tube. For Schrader valves, remove the cap

from the valve and press the metal shaft inside the
valve down with your finger to deflate. Use the tip of a
screwdriver if your finger wont fit inside the valve. For
Presta valves, press down the tip of the valve until the
tube is deflated.
2. Slip a tire iron between the tire and rim at the point on
the rim directly opposite where the valve joins the rim.
This tire iron will serve as an anchor, so leave it in place
once its under the tires edge.
3. Use a second tire iron to get under the tires edge near
where you placed the first iron.
4. With the second tire iron, circle the perimeter of the rim
to pry off the tire and free the tube housed inside.

1. Starting from the area around the valve, use both your
hands to work the tires edges back onto the rim. Get
as much of the tire onto the rim as possible. Youll likely
get almost all of the tire onto the rim and then be left
with a stubborn, roughly 6" section that wont seat
properly along the rim.
2. Insert one tire iron just under the edge of the tire at a
point where the tire fits snugly against the rim. Leave
that tire iron in place (itll serve as an anchor point).
3. Starting from the other end of the stubborn tire section,
use another tire iron to wedge the stubborn part of the
tire back onto the rim. Move toward the anchor point
youve created with the first tire iron until the entire
tire is seated properly against the rim. Always work
gentlythe ends of the tire iron can puncture the tube.

Step 3: Check the Tire for Sharp Objects

1. Run your hand carefully along the inside and outside
surface of the tire. Remove any objects that may have
punctured the tube.
2. If youre planning to use a new tube to fix the flat, skip
to step 6.
3. If youre planning to use a patch kit, proceed to step 4.

Step 4: Locate the Source of the Leak

1. Inflate the tube with your bike pump and look for a hole
while listening for a hissing sound.
2. If you cant find the hole, inflate the tube and place it in
a bucket of water. Air will bubble from the hole.
3. Mark the hole with a pen, marker, or your finger.

Tools You Need

Step 5: Sand and Patch the Tube

1. Open your patch kit. It should contain sandpaper, a

small patch, and patch glue.
2. Dry off the area near the hole and sand it for about
one minute. Sanding helps roughen the tubes surface,
which makes the patch glue bond better.
3. Dab the hole with glue and apply the patch to the hole.

Tire irons
Screwdrivers (flat-head and Phillips)
Wrench
Patch kit, or new tube if patch kit fails
Bike pump
Ball-point pen or permanent marker
Bucket of water (optional)

Step 1: Remove the Wheel

1. Remove the brake cable from the brake clamp by
pulling the cable free. Some hand brakes have a lever
you need to pull before the cable can be pulled free.
2. For a front tire, loosen the bolt that connects the
wheel to the frame with your fingers, an Allen
wrench, or a screwdriver (depending on your
particular bike). If you have quick releases, unfasten
the quick release.

4. Wait at least five minutes for the glue to dry before

trying to inflate the tire.
5. Fill the tube with just enough air for the entire tire to
take shape.

Step 6: Insert the Tube Back into the Tire

3. Slip the wheel out of the fork.

4. For back tires, loosen the tire bolt or quick release.
Drop the wheel out of the fork and move it forward,
away from the rear derailleur. Slip the chain off the rear
gear set to free the tire.
5. For bikes with coaster brakes, you can remove the
front tire just by unbolting it. To remove the rear tire,
you need to unbolt the coaster brake from the wheel.
Use a small wrench and a screwdriver to disconnect
the wheel from the coaster brake.

1. Insert the valve of the tube through the valve hole on

the rim.
2. Tuck a portion of the tube inside the tire. Hold that
portion inside the tire with one hand. With your free
hand, continue tucking in the tube around the entire
tire.

Step 8: Inflate the Tire

1. Lean the bike against a wall or on its kickstand.
2. Use a pump to inflate the tire ( see How to Check and
Inflate Bike Tires). Check the tire pressure by pressing
the tires sidewalls together every minute or so.
3. When the tire begins to feel hard, pump more slowly
and keep an eye on the pumps psi gauge.
4. Pump only until the gauge matches the pressure listed
on your tires sidewall.
5. If your pump has no gauge, stop pumping once you can
no longer squeeze the tires sidewalls in at all.

Step 9: Reattach the Brakes

1. For hand brakes, slip the brake cable back into the
brake clamps. For coaster brakes, rebolt the brake onto
the rear wheel.
2. Test the brakes before riding ( see How to Maintain Bike
Brakes).

Tubeless or Sew-Up Bicycle Tires

Though rare, some bike tires have no tubes at all. There
are two types of such tires: tubeless tires and sew-up (or
tubular) tires.
Tubeless tires: Used mostly on mountain bikes. The
tires are attached directly to the rim with no inner tube.
A flat tire must be replaced with a new tire.
Sew-up (tubular) tire: Used on competitive road
bikes. The tire is sewn around the inner tube. A flat tire
must be cut and resewn (consult a bike mechanic for
help with this procedure).

How to Maintain Bike Brakes

Over time, the friction of braking can wear down the brake
pads (on rim and disc brakes) or impair the coaster brake
mechanism, limiting the effectiveness of your brakes. If you
sense that your brakes arent responding as well as they
should, test them. And even if your brakes seem to be fine,
you should still test them regularly.
The process for checking bike brakes differs depending
on whether you have hand brakes or coaster brakes.

How to Inspect Hand Brakes

1. Lift the front tire off the ground and spin it slightly, then
pull the hand brakes for the front tire. Repeat for the
rear brakes. The brakes should engage and stop the
wheel almost immediately.

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2. If the brakes dont stop the
tire immediately, check for
brake wear at the point where
the brake pad contacts the
rim. New pads have a series of
deep grooves. If the grooves
on your pads are worn away,
then the pads need replacing
(see How to Replace Bike
Brake Pads).

4.

grooves on a new
brake pad

If You Cant Find the Problem

Of all the bikes systems, brakes are the most crucial to your
safety and are among the least expensive parts to repair.
If your hand brakes arent working as well as they should,
never ignore the issue, even if theres no evident wear on
the brake pads. Its important to take the bike to a bike
mechanic to ensure that your brakes work.

5.

6.

How to Inspect Coaster Brakes

1. Lift the rear tire off the ground and spin the tire.
2. Apply the brake by pushing the pedals backward.
3. The brake should engage, and the wheel should stop
almost immediately.
4. If the brakes fail to stop the wheel immediately, bring
the bike to a mechanic. Dont try to fix coaster brakes
yourself.

How to Replace Bike Brake Pads

If you discover that your bikes brake pads are worn, replace
them immediately. Waiting too long to replace brake pads
can cause the metal brake clamps to contact the wheels,
which can cause expensive problems, such as bent rims.

How to Buy Replacement Brake Pads

Bring your bike to a shop and ask for help finding pads that
fit your brakes. There are two types of brake pads: cartridge
and bolt-on. Cartridge pads require no tools to install,
whereas bolt-on pads have a bolt that must be unfastened
and refastened when changing pads.
Brake pads come in sets of two. Always replace the two

7.

into the brake clamps, with the grooved side facing

the rims. For cartridge pads, just slide the pad into its
clamp. For bolt-ons, line up the pad so that it contacts
the rim directly when the brake is applied. When you
think youve got the alignment right, fasten the bolt.
Test the brake pad alignment: Take a short ride to
test the new pads. If the pad doesnt contact the rim
as evenly and completely as possible, you may need to
adjust the angle at which the pad rests. Some brakes
have washers that need to be loosened or tightened in
order to adjust the angle. Others require you to move
the pad manually within its housing before fastening it.
If your bike seems to offer no option for adjusting the
angle of the pad, consult a bike mechanic for help.
Secure the brake pad: Once youve aligned and
bolted in one brake successfully, repeat steps 14 for
every other brake pad.
Reconnect the brakes and check alignment: Place
the brake cable back into the brake clamp. Spin the
wheel. The rim shouldnt touch the brake pad.
If the rim touches the brake pads: Check the bolts to
make sure theyre fastened as tightly as possible. If the
problem persists, consult a bike mechanic.

How to Fix a Bike Chain

The chain is loose and sags.
The chain falls off the chain ring as you ride.

Loose Chain
A proper bike chain is taut, almost parallel to the ground,
and doesnt sag. If the chain on your bike is sagging, it likely
means that some of the links in the chain have stretched
and the chain needs to be replaced. Because replacing a
chain requires specialized tools, youre best off taking your
bike to a mechanic for this procedure.
If you bring a bike with a loose chain in to a mechanic, its
also a good idea to have the mechanic inspect your gearing
system to make sure the chain isnt being worn down by a
problem youre not aware of.

Though a chain falling off the chain ring sounds more

serious than a loose chain, its actually easier to fix and can
be done right on the road.

cartridge pads

1. Create slack by pulling downward on the chain just

behind the largest gear on the chain ring. Wear gloves
to protect your hands.

pads that attach to each brake clamp at the same time.

Since most riders use the rear brakes more often than the
front brakes, the rear set of pads tends to wear down more
quickly than the front set.

If the Chain Falls Off Regularly

If your chain falls off regularly, use the following checklist to
resolve the problem. Try each step in sequence, and move
on to the next step only if the current step fails to resolve
the problem.
1. Check the derailleurs for obstructions: Built-up
dirt and grease can interfere with gear shifting. Clear
the dirt with a rag dipped in citrus solvent. Use a
toothbrush on tough spots.
2. Adjust rear derailleur: See How to Adjust a Rear
Derailleur.
3. Check the chains fit: It should fit snugly on the teeth
of the chain ring and the rear gear set. If the chain
doesnt fit snugly, it most likely needs to be replaced.
Bring your bike to a bike mechanic to replace the chain.
4. If the above steps fail: Bring the bike to a mechanic.

How to Clean a Bike Chain

Cleaning the chain is the most effective way to extend the
life of your drive train, the transmission system of your
bike that includes the chain, chain ring, rear gear set, and
derailleurs. Clean your bike chain any time after you ride
through dirt, mud, or water. Though it seems daunting,
cleaning the chain is actually a fast and easy process.

Tools You Need

Citrus solvent (ideally in a spray bottle)

Rag
Bike lube
Old toothbrush (optional)
Dish soap and water (optional)

Instructions

How to Replace the Pads

You dont need any tools to replace cartridge pads. For bolton pads you need:
New brake pads
Allen wrench or screwdriver

4. A correctly mounted chain should look like this:

Bike chains can present two different problems:

Chain Falls Off the Chain Ring

bolt-on pads

slack to let you to slip the remainder of the chain back

onto the front and top portion of the gear.

2. Mount the chain gently back onto the teeth along the
bottom of the largest chain ring gear. You should feel
the chain lock snugly into place along the teeth.

1. Turn the bike upside down: Flip the bike so its

resting on the saddle and handlebars.
2. Put citrus solvent on a rag: Spray (or pour) a quartersized pool of citrus solvent onto the rag.
3. Hold the rag around the chain: Keep the ragand
your fingersaway from the sharp teeth of the gears.

Instructions
1. Disconnect the brakes: Remove the brake cable from
the brake clamp by squeezing the brake pads together
and pulling the cable free. Some hand brakes also have
a lever that you have to pull before the cable can be
pulled free.
2. Remove the brake pads: Use an Allen wrench to
unfasten the bolt that secures the pad. For cartridge
pads, slide the cartridge out of its clamp.
3. Attach a new brake pad: Place a new brake pad

3. Pull up on the top portion of the chain to create enough

4. Pedal the bike to move the chain: Keeping the rag
in place around the chain, use a free hand to pedal the
bike so that the entire chain moves through the rag.
Continue until you remove all visible dirt and debris

Bike Maintenance

www.quamut.com
from the chain.
5. If the chain is still dirty: Try applying a rag soaked in
dish detergent and water to the chain first, then repeat
steps 14. If stubborn dirt remains, try brushing it out
with an old toothbrush dipped in detergent.
6. Lube the chain: Once the chain is clean, apply lube
directly to its entire length.

How to Adjust a Bike Saddle (Seat)

How to Adjust a Rear Derailleur

Have a friend hold the bike in place as you sit on it and pedal
backward: if you can extend your legs comfortably to reach
the pedals and your bottom feels fine, the seat height and
position are okay. If not, you need to change the seat position or seat height.

You may need to adjust your rear derailleur if you have problems shifting between gears on the rear gear hub, such as:
Skipped gears: Gears jump unexpectedly from one
gear to another, out of sequence.
Gears that wont engage: Its impossible to shift into
certain gears, as if the gears are blocked.
Delayed shifting: Gears engage, but only after an
extended delay (at least a few seconds).

How to Inspect Your Gears

If you suspect you may need to adjust your rear derailleur,
first inspect your gears in action.
1. Take a slow ride on your bike. As you ride, shift through
every gear on the rear gear set (usually 510 gears) and
through each chain ring. For instance, if you have three
chain rings and your rear gear set has seven gears,
shift through all 21 possible gears.
2. Whenever you encounter a shifting problem, stop
pedaling and make a note of the gears on which the
problem occurred. Note the problem gear(s) on both
the chain ring and the rear gear set.

If the Chain Ring Gears Are Causing Problems

The front derailleur may need adjustment, or the chain ring
may need to be cleaned or replaced. Both of these jobs are
best done by a mechanic.

If the Rear Gear Set Gears Are Causing Problems

The rear derailleur probably needs adjusting, which you can
do with the help of a friend.

How to Adjust a Rear Derailleur

1. Inspect the derailleur: Check to see whether its
been bent in toward the bike frame. If the derailleur is
damaged or bent, a serious repair is required, and you
should bring the bike to a mechanic.
barrel adjuster
2. Find the barrel adjuster: This
small dial allows you to fine-tune
the derailleurs responsiveness.
Tightening the dial improves
shifting from smaller gears to
larger gears. Loosening it
improves shifting from larger
gears to smaller gears. Your goal
in steps 36 is to find the barrel
adjuster setting that lets all the
gears on the rear hub shift smoothly.
3. Prop up the rear wheel: Have a friend lift the bike up
from the saddle. Then stand next to the bike and pedal
with one foot while also shifting through the gears with
a free hand.
4. If you encounter a shifting problem: Stop pedaling
and have your friend let down the bike.
5. Turn the barrel adjuster: Turn the adjuster a half-turn
counterclockwise (when facing the dial from behind the
bike) to tighten, or a half-turn clockwise to loosen.
6. Pedal and shift through the gears again: Stop
pedaling and shifting and repeat step 5 until you find
the correct setting. Youll know youve found it when
the problematic gears shift smoothly. The other gears
shouldnt be thrown off by your adjustment. If adjusting
the derailleur doesnt solve the problem, seek the help
of a bike mechanic.

If sitting on your bike feels uncomfortable, especially on

longer rides, or if youre finding it difficult to pedal, your seat
may have shifted and may no longer be at the right height
or horizontal position for you.

How to Check Seat Height

How to Adjust Seat Height

To adjust seat height (the vertical position of the seat):
1. Measure the seats current height with a tape measure.
2. Loosen the quick release or bolt that holds the seat
post in place.
3. Move the seat up or down by pulling it straight up or
pushing it down until its at the right height for you. If
you have trouble moving the seat, try dripping some
lubricant onto the seat post and then try again. If the
seat still wont move, ask a bike mechanic for help.
4. Tighten the quick release or bolt at your desired seat
height.
5. Repeat the test in How to Check Seat Height above to
see whether the new seat height fits you better.

How to Adjust Seat Position

To adjust seat position (the horizontal angle and front-toback position of the seat):
1. Use pliers or an Allen wrench to loosen the bolt(s) on
the seats bottom that hold the seat in place.
2. Move the seat forward or backward, or tilt it up or
down to adjust its horizontal angle.
3. Tighten the bolts.
4. Test the seat position with a short ride. Make further
adjustments if necessary.
A wobbly or loose saddle can be dangerous. If you lack the
strength or leverage to tighten the seat bolts all the way,
have a friend help you tighten them.

How to Clean Your Bike

Cleaning your bike regularly will help prevent buildup of dirt,
grease, and water, all of which can cause serious damage
to your bikes main parts. To prevent these problems, clean
your bike from top to bottom every month or so, and also
clean it after any rides through dusty or muddy terrain.

How to Clean the Frame

To remove dirt and mud: Use a damp rag to wipe off
dry dirt and a dry rag to sop up fresh mud. Scrub off
stubborn dirt with an old toothbrush if necessary.
To remove grease: Spray citrus solvent on the frame
and wipe it down with a rag.
To remove water: To prevent rust and paint wear,
wipe water off as soon as possible with a dry rag.

How to Clean the Wheels

To remove dirt and mud: Wipe off dry dirt with a
damp rag. Using a hose and a spray guy, remove mud
from the tire treads and sidewalls before the mud dries.
To remove grease: Spray citrus solvent on the wheels
and let it sit a few moments before wiping. If the grease
proves tough to remove, use a rag dipped in detergent
and water.
To remove water: Wipe off the rims with a dry rag
after riding. Never store a bike with the wheels still wet,
as that can cause rust.

How to Clean the Handlebars and Saddle

Handlebars: When handlebar grips and tape get really
dirty and worn, you can replace them. Make sure you
get replacement supplies in the right size and shape,
and follow the instructions on the packaging.
Saddle: If a vinyl-covered saddle gets dirty, clean with
a rag soaked in water and dishwashing soap. Leather
saddles can be cleaned with leather cleaning products,
such as saddle soap.

How to Find a Bike Mechanic

Though you can perform routine bike maintenance for years
without too much trouble, eventually you may encounter a
repair problem too tough for you to solve on your own. A
few examples of problems you should not try to fix yourself
include:
Truing (straightening) wheels
Replacing gears and derailleurs
Fixing cracks in the frame
When issues like these arise, seek the services of a trained
bicycle mechanic. Here are a few tips on how to find a bicycle mechanic you can trust.
Visit a good bike shop: Good bike shops typically
have reputable mechanics on staff. Theyre also often
authorized retailers of the best bike brands, such as
Trek and Specialized . Look for a mechanic at a shop
that stocks your type and brand of bike.
Find a mechanic who makes you feel comfortable:
If youre an amateur bike rider and you run across a
mechanic who treats you with condescension or thinks
your questions are stupid, find somebody else. Avoid
mechanics who ignore your specific concerns before
diagnosing the problem with your bike.
Get a cost estimate: Have your mechanic provide a
detailed, up-front cost estimate for all repairs. Before
the mechanic starts work, agree with him or her on a
final cost that the repair should not exceed.

Questions to Ask a Potential Mechanic

The following list contains a few important questions you
should ask any bike mechanic you might hire, along with the
answers you should expect from a good mechanic.
How long have you been a professional bike
mechanic? 35 years (or more).
How long will it take to complete this repair? A
week or less. Bike repairs should take no longer than
one week, unless the bike needs a massive overhaul.
Have you completed any bike mechanic training
courses? Yes. Serious bike mechanics should have at
least some formal training, such as a certificate from an
extensive bike maintenance course.
Will you let me know if you see any other problems
while doing this repair? Yes. A professional mechanic
should expect to contact you if additional repairs are
required and proceed with those repairs only after
youve agreed to cover any additional costs they incur.
Do you specialize in repairing my type of bike?
Yes. Years of experience and training dont guarantee
that the mechanic can fix your specific model. Hire a
mechanic who knows your particular bike.
Do you offer refunds if the problem doesnt go
away after the repair is finished? Yes. Problems
sometimes persist after costly repairs have been
made and paid for. When this happens, professional
mechanics should either offer to make further
adjustments for free or grant you a refund.