Clean your bike? What?

At the shop, the service department sees many types of bikes. Road and triathlon, yes, but we also get the occasional cruiser and mountain bike. Our mechanics are trained to fix and service every type of bike (yes, even unicycles). One thing that remains constant however, is that a clean bike is a happy bike. Keeping your bike clean isn't just a matter of aesthetics, especially when talking about the drivetrain (chain, front chainrings, and cassette). Your bike will run better and your drivetrain parts will last longer if they're kept clean.

Here is a basic overview on drivetrain cleaning. Check out our website for the dirty details on cleaning your drivetrain.

Required Tools:

• Repair stand, or way to suspend the bike
• Rag
• Solvent
• Lube
• Ruler
• Disposable Gloves
• Small Screwdriver
• Brush
• Chain-Cleaner tool

Steps:

Check your chain for wear and stretching. Use the ruler to measure, looking for the 1 inch space between two pins. If it is longer than an inch, your chain is stretched and should be replaced. Wipe your chain clean using a rag. Then scrub your chain clean using the chain-cleaner tool. Clean your crankset using the brush. Clean the cassette using the shoe shine method with a rag dampened with solvent. Check the derailleurs and pulleys and wipe any excess gunk. Finally, lube the chain and wipe any excess lube away.

Do NOT spray your bike down with any high pressure hose as this can put water where water is not wanted. (In the headset, bottom bracket, etc).

If you have any questions, feel free to inquire with any of our staff at the shop.

Some of our favorite frame cleaners:

Simple Green

Pedro's Bike Lust Bike Polish
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