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<h1>Bike Maintenance </h1>
<p><a href=" http://www.canadiantire.ca/AST/browse/5/SportsRec/BikesAccessories.jsp">See Bikes</a>: http://www.canadiantire.ca/AST/browse/5/SportsRec/BikesAccessories.jsp</p>
<p>The best time to check your bike over is before the riding season starts.</p>
<p>Cables stretch over time making shifting and braking less precise. Use the adjusters to restore peak performance.</p>
<p>Throughout the year, keep your bike in top shape with these simple steps:</p>
<p>Keep your bike clean</p>
<p>Keep the chain lubricated</p>
<p>Check the tire inflation</p>
<p>Check your Brakes and Quick Releases</p>
<p>Your bike will work better without a layer of grease and dirt on the shift mechanism or the brakes.</p>
<p>Wash the bike using a mild dish detergent in a bucket of warm water.</p>
<p>Rinse off the soap, but don't spray water directly into the hubs or the crank area.</p>
<p>After washing, the chain will need to be lubricated.</p>
<p>A well lubricated chain is quieter and will better transfer the power from the pedals to the road.</p>
<p>Use a lubricant designed for bike chains. Hold a rag under the chain and drip oil on the chain while pedaling backwards.</p>
<p>Since the chain is made from steel, the layer of lubrication helps prevent rust from forming.</p>
<p>Wait a few minutes then wipe off the excess oil.</p>
<p>Next check your tire pressure. A properly inflated tire is safer and more comfortable to ride.</p>
<p>Under inflated tires are more prone to punctures and they create more rolling resistance. Over inflated tires give a hard, uncomfortable ride.</p>
<p>Different tires may require different inflation pressures. Check the sidewall for the correct pressure for your tire. </p>
<p>Check your tire pressure with either the gauge on your pump, or a gauge specifically designed for bicycle tires.</p>
<p>A hand bicycle pump is best for topping up the tire. A gas station air hose can very easily over-inflate a tire.</p>
<p>Check your front and rear brakes. They should have a smooth firm feel. Both brakes should have about the same amount of tension.</p>
<p>Also check that the brake pads are contacting the braking surface on the rim and not the tire.</p>
<p>Check the pads for wear and replace if necessary.</p>
<p>If your bike has quick release hubs, check these too. It fact it's good to check these before each ride.</p>
<p>Open the quick release and loosen or tighten the nut on the opposite side as required.</p>
<p>Re-engage the quick release. It should be tight enough to leave a slight indentation in the palm of your hand.</p>
<p>To get ready to ride, have a...</p>
<p>• Pre-season tune up.</p>
<p>• Throughout the year, make sure you clean your bike, keep the chain lubricated, check the tire inflation and check the brakes and quick releases.</p>
<p>You can see a wide range of bikes and maintenance accessories...</p>
<p>At Canadian Tire</p>