Bike Check list

Print out this page and attach it to your workbench or toolbox to use as a checklist.
These are general service guidelines for road and mountain bikes.
Bicycles ridden off road typically require more frequent and extensive service than road models.
If you notice problems or have questions about anything on your bicycle, call in at your local friendly Bike shop who will be delighted to advise you on what maintenance is required.
If your bike is heavily used, abused or has been crashed, we recommend bringing it in to your local bike shop for a thorough check and service to ensure that it's running properly.

Every Ride	Monthly	Half Yearly	Yearly
check tire pressure & add air if needed	clean the bike with a rag (or soap and water if it's real dirty) and inspect the frame and components for signs of wear such as cracks	clean and wax the frame to protect the paint/finish (not necessary on bare titanium frames); once it's clean, inspect the frame and fork for any cracks or damage	check all bearing systems: hubs, bottom bracket, headset and pedals: adjust and/or overhaul as needed
check the tire tread for wear and embedded debris that could cause a flat	wipe the chain and cassette cogs clean with a rag and earth-friendly degreaser and re-oil	check and replace tires if needed; also check your spare tube and patch kit to make sure the spare holds air and the kit has glue & patches	check all cables and housings for fraying, breaks, rust and corrosion and replace if necessary
check that the wheel quick releases are tight and that the wheels are secure	check the wheels for loose spokes	check the hubs, bottom bracket, headset: adjust and/or overhaul as needed	replace brake pads, rubber brake hoods and handlebar tape if necessary
spin wheels looking for wobbles, which indicate you should have your wheel trued	test with a spanner, the tightness of the: crank arms, pedals, chaining bolts, seat bolt, seat post bolt, stem bolts, handlebar bolts and all accessory mounting bolts/screws	check all cables and housings for fraying, breaks, rust and corrosion and replace if necessary	clean and check wheels carefully for signs of wear such as worn sidewalls (braking surface) or cracks at the spoke nipples
squeeze brakes to make sure they're grabbing and check to see that the brake pads are in good condition and that they strike the rims (not the tires!)	lube the brake (NOT THE BRAKE PAD), derailleur and clip less-pedal pivot points	check for worn brake pads and replace if needed; also replace worn handlebar tape or grips	check the hubs, bottom bracket, headset: adjust and/or overhaul as needed
compress and release the suspension to check that it's working properly	lube the cables to prevent binding and check the cables for fraying and rusting and replace if necessary;	check for chain, cassette cog and chaining wear and replace worn parts as required	overhaul the pedals to check the bearings and add fresh grease; if you're using toe straps, check them for wear and replace if needed
check chain & add lube if it looks dry	check clip less pedals and cleats for loose screws/bolts	clean the drive system (chain, chain rings, cassette, front and rear derailleur) with biodegradable solvent and rags	maintain and lube your suspension components according to the advice in the owner's manual
make sure you've got your spare tube, tools, pump, change etc...	maintain and lube your suspension components according to the advice in the owner's manual	maintain and lube your suspension components according to the advice in the owner's manual	lube your frame and home pump