{"id":46686,"date":"2023-02-10T18:00:00","date_gmt":"2023-02-10T17:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.bikeradar.com\/?p=716004"},"modified":"2023-02-10T18:34:20","modified_gmt":"2023-02-10T17:34:20","slug":"15-common-home-maintenance-mistakes-and-how-to-avoid-them","status":"publish","type":"rss_feed","link":"https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/cyclingplus\/rss_feed\/15-common-home-maintenance-mistakes-and-how-to-avoid-them\/","title":{"rendered":"15 common home maintenance mistakes\u00a0(and how to avoid them)"},"content":{"rendered":"

Steer clear of these avoidable errors <\/p>

By Oscar Huckle\n \t\t<\/p>

Published: Friday, 10 February 2023 at 12:00 am<\/p>

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It\u2019s all too easy for a simple workshop job to escalate into a time-consuming odyssey.<\/p>\n

We\u2019ve all been there. From rounding a bolt or taking on a job that\u2019s deceptively hard to simply misplacing a tool, bike maintenance can quickly become frustrating.<\/p>\n

To ease your maintenance woes, we\u2019ve put together a list of 15 common home maintenance mistakes so you can avoid any unneeded trips to the bike shop<\/a>.<\/p>\n

1. Reaching for the limit screws first when adjusting gears<\/h2>\n
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Leave those limit screws alone folks!<\/span><\/figcaption> Alex Evans<\/i><\/span><\/div>\n

There are many variables to check when adjusting or indexing gears<\/a>. While it might be tempting to reach for the limit screws, this isn\u2019t the best place to start.<\/p>\n

The limit screws prevent the rear derailleur<\/a> from shifting the chain<\/a> into the spokes or into the driveside chainstay. Provided they have been set up correctly and the derailleur hanger is not bent<\/a>, in theory they will not need adjusting.<\/p>\n

If your gears aren\u2019t shifting optimally, checking the cable tension should be your first port of call. It\u2019s also worth checking the condition of the cables for any fraying, or kinks or tears to the outers.<\/p>\n

2. Not looking after your chain properly<\/h2>\n
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Don\u2019t let your chain get this dirty, it will just wear out your other drivetrain components.<\/span><\/figcaption> Colin Levitch \/ Immediate Media<\/i><\/span><\/div>\n

The chain is one of the most critical components on your bike, so it\u2019s worth looking after.<\/p>\n

If you get into the habit of cleaning your chain<\/a> regularly, your drivetrain<\/a> will run smoothly and you\u2019ll decrease the rate of chain wear<\/a>.<\/p>\n

It\u2019s best to use a specific chain degreaser<\/a> and chain lubricant<\/a> for optimal results when looking after your chain.<\/p>\n

3. Incorrect chain length or orientation<\/h2>\n
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This chain is too long.<\/span><\/figcaption> Oscar Huckle \/ Our Media <\/i><\/span><\/div>\n

Sticking with chains, it\u2019s important to install them correctly.<\/p>\n

If the chain has been cut too short, you will struggle to shift into the largest cassette cog. The chain will likely snap and it can even rip the rear derailleur off as the chain puts too much strain on it.<\/p>\n

If the chain is too long, it will sag or droop when using the smaller cassette cogs. This will make shifting less precise and the chain will contact the driveside chainstay.<\/p>\n

When replacing a bicycle chain<\/a>, it\u2019s worth making sure the chain is installed in the correct orientation.<\/p>\n

Some chains are designed to only be installed in one direction and it\u2019s worth paying particular attention to the quick link<\/a>, too. Again, the wrong orientation can lead to poor shifting and an increased risk of the chain snapping.<\/p>\n

4. Riding with a poorly adjusted headset<\/h2>\n
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There shouldn\u2019t be any play in the headset whatsoever.<\/span><\/figcaption> Stan Portus \/ Our Media <\/i><\/span><\/div>\n

If your bike\u2019s headset<\/a> is too lose, it can lead to a variety of problems.<\/p>\n

If you can feel play or knocking when you apply the front brake and rock the fork back and forth, your headset is loose.<\/p>\n

At best, this translates to poor steering, but at worst the knocking headset can cause severe damage to your fork steerer tube, particularly if it is carbon.<\/p>\n

Carbon fibre cannot withstand abrasion and, over time, a loose headset bearing can start to wear away at the material, potentially causing catastrophic failure.<\/p>\n

5. Quick-release skewers loose and in the wrong orientation<\/h2>\n
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This rear quick-release is oriented correctly.<\/span><\/figcaption> Oscar Huckle \/ Our Media <\/i><\/span><\/div>\n

It\u2019s common for the quick-release skewers to be installed too loose, too tight or in the wrong orientation.<\/p>\n

A quick-release skewer shouldn\u2019t require a Herculean effort to close \u2013 it should require enough tension that the lever leaves a slight imprint in the palm of your hand.<\/p>\n

Quick-release skewers should also be oriented correctly.<\/p>\n

The skewer handle should always be on the driveside of the bike (the only exception being a handful of disc brake frames with levered thru-axles that install from the non-driveside).<\/p>\n

The handle should be positioned slightly past the fork blade in the direction of the drivetrain. On the rear, it should bisect the non-driveside chainstay and seatstay.<\/p>\n

If the skewer is pointing forward or downward on the front, or towards the floor or back of the bike on the rear, you run the risk of it opening accidentally if you hit an obstacle or if another rider\u2019s wheel gets caught in the skewer.<\/p>\n

And never position the skewer against the fork or frame because it will make opening it again in the future a very difficult task.<\/p>\n

6. Under- or over-inflating tyres<\/h2>\n
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Check your tyre pressures before every ride.<\/span><\/figcaption> Russell Burton \/ Immediate Media<\/i><\/span><\/div>\n

Riding with under- or over-inflated tyres is another common error. Too high and you\u2019ll feel every vibration on the road or trail; too low and you\u2019ll run the risk of punctures, compromised handling and a sluggish ride.<\/p>\n

If you\u2019re unsure on what pressure to inflate your tyres to, there will be a suggested range printed on the sidewall.<\/p>\n

It\u2019s a good idea to invest in one of the best bike pumps<\/a>, because they will feature a gauge for precise inflation. It\u2019s worth checking the tyre pressure<\/a> before every ride. If you\u2019re not sure what tyre pressure you should run, you could take a look at a tyre pressure calculator (we like Silca\u2019s).<\/p>\n

7. Under- or over-tightening bolts<\/h2>\n
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It\u2019s worth investing in a decent torque wrench for jobs such as this.<\/span><\/figcaption> Stan Portus \/ Our Media <\/i><\/span><\/div>\n

Modern bicycles are subject to tight tolerances and the bolts that secure the various components need to be fastened correctly.<\/p>\n

If a bolt is too loose or too tight, you run the risk of failure.<\/p>\n

It is best to use a torque wrench<\/a> whenever you adjust a bolt, particularly if the component or the surface it is clamping onto is carbon fibre. Carbon fibre, in particular, doesn\u2019t like to be over-clamped and will fracture if over-tightened.<\/p>\n

Many manufacturers list a recommended torque next to the bolt \u2013 do not exceed this.<\/p>\n

It\u2019s also worth ensuring any and all fasteners are sufficiently prepared with grease, threadlock or anti-seize, as per the manufacturer\u2019s instructions.<\/p>\n

8. Removing pedals with the outer chainring exposed<\/h2>\n
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Shift the chain onto the big ring to avoid injury.<\/span><\/figcaption> Phillipp Abels <\/i><\/span><\/div>\n

When you fit, remove or change bike pedals<\/a>, it\u2019s a good idea to have the chain in the biggest chainring.<\/p>\n

Having the chain cover the sharp teeth of the chainring can help avoid any painful, knuckle-skinning experiences.<\/p>\n

9. Not greasing pedal threads or over-tightening them<\/h2>\n
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Do not skip greasing your threads. You will only live to regret it later.<\/span><\/figcaption> Laura Dow \/ Immediate Media<\/i><\/span><\/div>\n

Sticking with pedals, make sure you apply some anti-seize to the pedal threads prior to installation.<\/p>\n

If you don\u2019t grease them, you\u2019ll likely find it impossible to remove them in the future because they can seize in place.<\/p>\n

It\u2019s also critical to not over-tighten pedals, because the act of pedalling effectively tightens them.<\/p>\n

10. Neglecting your seatpost<\/h2>\n
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Look after your seatpost.<\/span><\/figcaption> Oscar Huckle \/ Our Media <\/i><\/span><\/div>\n

A seized seatpost<\/a> can spell all manner of trouble. It\u2019s an easy component to forget about, given you rarely need to adjust it once you\u2019ve correctly set your saddle height<\/a>.<\/p>\n

In the worst-case scenario, you\u2019ll need to enlist the specialist services of a seatpost removal company<\/a> (yes, these actually exist).<\/p>\n

It\u2019s best to remove the seatpost twice a year and give it a clean. If the seatpost and frame are metal, make sure you apply some anti-seize during installation. If any of the components are carbon fibre, you\u2019ll need to use carbon fibre grip instead.<\/p>\n

11. Resting a bike on its driveside<\/h2>\n
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Don\u2019t do it!<\/span><\/figcaption> Jack Luke \/ Immediate Media<\/i><\/span><\/div>\n

If the bike is leaned on the driveside, there\u2019s an increased likelihood of the derailleur hanger bending.<\/p>\n

The derailleur hanger is a sacrificial part in between the frame\u2019s dropout and rear derailleur and is designed to bend or break to save your frame.<\/p>\n

If a derailleur hanger is bent, it can lead to\u00a0 poor and inaccurate shifting, with the chain potentially derailing into the spokes or driveside chainstay.<\/p>\n

12. Not replacing bar tape<\/h2>\n
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Fresh bar tape is always a nice feeling.<\/span><\/figcaption> Josh Patterson<\/i><\/span><\/div>\n

Regularly replacing your handlebar tape<\/a> may not seem like an important maintenance job, but if you ride frequently or you\u2019re into indoor cycling<\/a>, it\u2019s wise to do this once or twice a year.<\/p>\n

If your handlebar is metal, the salt in your sweat can lead to oxidisation. In extreme cases, it\u2019s not unheard of to witness handlebars failing due to corrosion.<\/p>\n

By removing your old bar tape, you can periodically inspect your handlebar, and you\u2019ll also avoid the thoroughly unpleasant task of unravelling crusty old tape.<\/p>\n

13. Riding without bar end plugs<\/h2>\n
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Don\u2019t underestimate the importance of the humble bar end plug.<\/span><\/figcaption> Jack Luke \/ Immediate Media<\/i><\/span><\/div>\n

Whether you have a drop handlebar or a flat mountain bike handlebar, we really can\u2019t recommend riding with bar end plugs enough. These are a safety feature and not simply cosmetic.<\/p>\n

If you were to fall off when cycling, an unplugged handlebar end will effectively act as a cookie cutter into your sternum, or worse<\/a>.<\/p>\n

If your bar end plug falls out regularly, you could try applying some double-sided tape on its inside. Alternatively, you can upgrade to one that clamps in place with an expanding bung.<\/p>\n

14. Not servicing suspension<\/h2>\n
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Neglect your fork or shock at your peril.<\/span><\/figcaption> Andy Lloyd \/ Our Media<\/i><\/span><\/div>\n

Suspension requires regular servicing to perform in tip-top condition.<\/p>\n

The components that make up the fork or shock are always moving when you ride, and the oils and seals should be kept fresh and clean.<\/p>\n

Servicing suspension stops any grit and grime that\u2019s made its way into your shock or fork from causing any damage.<\/p>\n

Suspension manufacturers include recommended specific service intervals, so it\u2019s well worth keeping a note of when you should next give your suspension some TLC.<\/p>\n

15. Using poor-quality tools<\/h2>\n
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It\u2019s worth investing in quality tools.<\/span><\/figcaption> David Rome \/ Immediate Media<\/i><\/span><\/div>\n

The age-old adage \u201cBuy cheap, buy twice\u201d couldn\u2019t be more true in the world of bicycle tools.<\/p>\n

A worn or poor-quality tool could lead to rounding a bolt, marring an interface, even breaking a component or the tool itself.<\/p>\n

Higher-quality tools will be manufactured to tighter tolerances, ensuring a snug and precise fit for the relevant job at hand.<\/p>\n

What other maintenance mistakes have you made? Let us know your maintenance mishaps in the comments.<\/em><\/p> <\/body><\/html>\n

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