Checklist fit for spring
- Thorough washing Before you start the inspection, thoroughly clean your bike of mud and road salt.
- Brakes Check brake pad thickness and disc thickness according to the manufacturer's specifications.
- Impeller Tap the spoke mesh to find loose spokes, locate and centre the eights using cable ties. Check the play and freedom of movement of the bearings.
- Suspension fork/damper Visual inspection of the seals and sliding surfaces. If the shock and suspension fork have bush play, a service is due. Small do-it-yourself service: Remove the fork tubes for cleaning and lubrication.
-Bottom bracket Without chain, check that the crank turns easily and without play.
-Chain Check the chain with a wear gauge. Visually check chainrings, cassette and derailleur pulleys.
- Shift cables Depending on the condition, oil/grease or replace the Bowden cable and outer casing.
Well groomed for spring
Winter is cruel. While the dark season with its deprivation of sunshine weighs on the mind, the material also has to struggle enormously - with permanent mud and salt bombardment. The drivetrain, all bearings and the suspension elements wear noticeably faster than in dry conditions. If you want your bike to last longer, you should therefore carry out a thorough inspection. These steps will make your bike fit again.
You can read this article or the entire BIKE 5/2015 issue in the BIKE app (iTunes and Google Play) or buy the issue in the DK shop reorder:
