One of the best things about owning a bicycle is how straightforward it is to look after. Unlike cars, most common problems can be solved with a few tools, a bit of patience, and the right know-how. Learning a handful of basic fixes will not only save you money, but also keep your second-hand bike running smoothly and safely.
Punctures
The most common issue cyclists face is the dreaded flat tyre. It might seem intimidating the first time, but fixing a puncture is a skill worth learning.
Start by removing the wheel from the bike and taking out the inner tube. Inflate the tube slightly and listen, or dunk it in water to spot bubbles. Once you’ve found the hole, roughen the area with sandpaper, apply a patch with glue, and press it firmly. If the tube is badly damaged or full of multiple patches, it’s usually quicker to replace it.
When refitting, check the inside of the tyre carefully. A shard of glass or a thorn left behind will just puncture the tube again.
Chains
A chain in poor condition can ruin your ride. Dirt and rust not only make pedalling harder but also wear down your gears. Fortunately, looking after it is simple.
Wipe off dirt with an old rag, then apply a suitable chain lubricant. Avoid using thick oils like WD-40, which attract grime. Instead, use a light bike-specific lube and apply sparingly. Wipe away the excess afterwards — too much lube is as bad as too little.
If your chain skips on the cogs or feels loose, it may be stretched and ready for replacement. Chain wear tools are inexpensive and make it easy to check when a change is due.
Brakes
Second-hand bikes often come with tired brakes, but they’re easy to refresh.
For rim brakes, inspect the brake pads. If the grooves have worn flat or the pad is uneven, replace them. Make sure they strike the rim squarely, not the tyre. Adjust the tension using the barrel adjuster near the lever or the bolt on the caliper itself.
Disc brakes can squeal if dirty, so clean the rotors with isopropyl alcohol. If braking still feels weak, the pads may need replacing. Hydraulic systems sometimes require bleeding, which is best done at a bike shop, but cable-operated discs are straightforward to adjust at home.
Gears
A well-tuned gear system makes riding a joy. On a second-hand bike, gears are often neglected, but most problems are fixable.
If your gears hesitate or jump between cogs, start by cleaning the derailleur and chain. Sometimes dirt alone is the culprit. Next, adjust the tension using the barrel adjuster on the shifter. Small turns can make a big difference.
If the derailleur doesn’t move far enough, check the limit screws. These prevent the chain from falling off either end of the cassette. Adjusting them correctly ensures smooth, safe shifting.
Tyres
Old tyres can spoil an otherwise solid bike. Look out for cracks in the rubber or bald patches. Replacing tyres is simple: remove the wheel, lever off the old tyre, and fit a new one. Folding tyres are easier to install, but even stiff ones will go on with a bit of persistence.
Choosing the right tyre depends on your riding. Narrow, slick tyres roll quickly on tarmac, while wider, knobbly ones grip better on trails. For everyday commuting, hybrid tyres with light tread offer the best of both worlds.
Pedals and Cranks
Loose pedals can damage the crank threads, so check them regularly. Pedals tighten in opposite directions: the right one clockwise, the left one anticlockwise. If you’re replacing them, remember this to avoid confusion.
Creaking cranks can often be traced to loose bolts. Tighten them carefully, but if the noise persists, the bottom bracket bearings may need servicing.
Seatposts and Stems
On older bikes, seatposts and stems sometimes seize in place due to corrosion. Prevent this by occasionally removing them, cleaning with a rag, and applying a little grease (or carbon paste for carbon parts). Adjusting these parts ensures you can always set up the bike for comfort and safety.
Tools Worth Having
A small toolkit goes a long way. Essentials include:
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A set of Allen keys.
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Tyre levers and a pump.
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A chain tool.
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Screwdrivers for gear and brake adjustments.
With these, you can tackle most fixes at home.