A well maintained bicycle is a happy bicycle. Even if you are not comfortable doing all your own bike work yet, some simple steps at home will keep your bicycle performing to its peak level.
Chain Lubes-Keeping the chain clean and well lubricated will lengthen the life of your drivetrain and have it operating smooth and quiet. Chain lubes come in several types, and most folks try out a few different ones before they decide on the one they prefer. Adjust the frequency of lubing your chain to suit your needs, some riders prefer to lube the chain every ride, others will go a week or more. A good guide line is to lube your chain once a week, or every 100 miles- whichever comes first.
Generally
Wet Lubes stay-well. . . wet. Wet lubes leave the surface of the chain coated with a layer of lubricant that will not harden or dry out. Wet lubes are ideal for bicycles that see a lot of mud, get ridden in the rain a fair amount, or are stored outside.
Dry lubes have a fluid carrier that evaporates shortly after the lube is applied. Dry lubes do not attract dust and grime like wet lubes do so your chain may stay cleaner for a longer period of time. There are several self-cleaning lubes, these lubes may have a wax base that allows dirt and grime build up to flake off as the chain operates.
Because of their different uses many lube makers will produce both wet and dry lubes.
For any chain lube follow the directions on the bottle. Spray cans make it easier to get the lube into hard-to-reach places. Drip bottles apply small amounts of lube accurately, so there is less waste.
Degreasers-While not required before every lubing, a periodic deep cleaning with a degreaser will flush built up dirt and grime from the links of your chain. Common methods of degreasing include using a chain scrubbing device that cleans the chain in place, or removing the chain from the bicycle to let it soak for a while. Some lubes have a degreaser that is specially formulated for that lube; otherwise look for a citrus degreaser as it will not harm most bicycle finishes and seals. No matter which degreaser you use be careful to keep it away from parts that you are not planning to re-lube or re-grease immediately.
Home Tool Kits-a few tools around the garage can save big bucks over time. By doing your own maintenance work you not only save some money, but you will be more confident that you can do road and trail side repairs if needed.
Basic-
Hex Keys in the following sizes: 1.5,2,2.5,3,4,5,6,8,and 10mm with duplicates in 4, 5, and 6.
Workstand-even if you don't work on your bike much a workstand is a great way to get it up off the ground so it is easy to reach, and won't acidently fall over.
Quick type workstands simply get the rear wheel off the ground so you can operate the drivetrain for cleaning, lubing and minor adjustments. They also can come in handy at ride starts so you are not leaning your bike against your car.
Full workstands elevate the bicycles to waist levels or higher, and are really the way to go for repairs and installations. Most grip the bicycle by the seatpost, since modern bikes are made with thin tubing that is easily damaged by an overly tight clamp.
