Cycle care
At Exmouth Cycles we have a fully equipped workshop with professional highly skilled staff to take care of servicing your machine. But there are a series of basic tasks you can carry out regularly at home to keep your bike in good condition and to get the most out of it. We can supply everything you need, and if you have any concerns or doubts about carrying out basic tasks, please give us a call on 01395 225656.
Cleaning
Like all machines with moving parts, rain and muck can wreak havoc. So when you return home from that gruelling eight-hour trek up and down a mountain, you should still make time to clean off your bike before putting it away. It's best to start by hosing down the beast, but avoid forcing water into moving parts and don't use a high-pressure hose. Then use a bucket of water with a detergent, with a sponge and brushes to reach tricky parts. We stock a variety of excellent cleaning products that will shift even the most hardened lump of oily grunge. Then dry off your machine and lubricate to avoid rust, especially on the major moving parts.
Lubrication
It's crucial that the moving parts, especially chains and cables, are kept well lubricated to keep working smoothly. Water can penetrate and cause rust, which will increase wear and cause a loss of efficiency. You'll probably want to leave the dismantling of major parts, such as the steering set and bottom bracket, to a mechanic for an annual service. But the chain and gear change mechanism, which are most exposed to the elements, as well as pivot points on gear and break mechanisms, will benefit from a drop of oil now and then, making sure you keep the oil away from the brake pads, rims and discs. If in doubt, call us for advice.
Tyres
It's important to check tyres weekly and make sure they are inflated to the correct pressure, as they can gradually lose pressure over time. The best pumps come with a pressure gauge, so you can make sure they are up to the right pressure, which is written on the side wall of most tyres. Riding with tyres at the correct pressure will make it easier to pedal and protect your wheels from impact damage. You should also check your tyres for wear and defects, and replace if necessary. It's likely that at some point you will experience a puncture. You should always carry a repair kit with you so you can get back on the road with the minimum of disruption.
Brakes
Brake pads will wear, so keep an eye on the wear indicators and replace as necessary. As they wear down, the mechanism will need adjusting to ensure the brakes remain effective. It is also worth inspecting brake and gear cables for wear such as fraying.
Storage
The weather will take its toll on a bike stored outside, especially the salty seaside air in Exmouth. But there are great storage solutions such as bike hooks which mean you can stow your pride and joy safely inside, whether that's a garage or your front room, taking up minimal space.
Security
Keeping your bike secure is crucial to avoid the hassle and frustration of having it stolen. For ultimate security you should fix wheels and frame to a permanent object. We sell a variety of suitable locks.