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BICYCLE
ASSEMBLY
REPAIR AND SERVICE
WHEELS
Wheel Inspection
It is most important that wheels are kept in top condition. Properly maintaining your bicycle’s wheels will help
braking performance and stability when riding. Be aware of the following potential problems:
Dirty or greasy rims:
Caution:
These can render your brakes ineffective. Do not clean them with oily or greasy materials. When cleaning,
use a clean rag or wash with soapy water, rinse and air dry. Don’t ride while they’re wet. When lubricating your
bicycle, don’t get oil on the rim braking surfaces.
Wheels not straight:
Lift each wheel off the ground and spin them to see if they are crooked or out of round. If wheels are not straight,
they will need to be adjusted. This is quite dificult and is best left to a bicycle specialist.
Broken or loose spokes:
Check that all spokes are tight and that none are missing or damaged.
Caution:
Such damage can result in severe instability and possibly an accident if not corrected. Again, bicycle
specialist best handles spoke repairs.
Loose hub bearings:
Lift each wheel off the ground and try to move the wheel from side to side.
Caution:
If there is movement between the axle and the hub, do not ride the bicycle. Adjustment is required.
Axle nuts:
Check that these are tight before each ride.
Using a light machine oil (20W) and the following guidelines, lubricate the bicycle:
WHAT
Pedals
Chain
WHEN
HOW
Every six months
Every six months
Put four drops of oil where each pedal
axle goes into the pedal.
Put one drop of oil on each roller of the
chain. Wipe all excess oil off the chain.
