How to prep your kids' bike for Spring

Here’s how to give your bike a nice, thorough clean: 

• Frame & wheels: Use a soft sponge or cloth and mild soap to clean the frame and wheels. Avoid harsh chemicals that could damage the paint. Make sure to clean the tyres too, removing any embedded dirt or debris
• Wipe down components: Pay special attention to areas like the handlebars, pedals, and saddle. Use a degreaser for stubborn grease or dirt on the chain, gears, or other mechanical parts
• Rinse down: Once you’ve cleaned the main components, you can rinse the bike gently with water (preferably with a hose or bucket). Always avoid high-pressure water sources, as these can force water into sensitive areas, leading to rust and wear
• Dry the bike: Once the bike is cleaned, it’s essential to dry it properly. Use a clean, dry towel to wipe down the frame, wheels, and components, making sure there’s no water left to sit on the bike. Pay special attention to the chain and gears, as moisture left there could lead to rust

Check out the video for tips on how to clean your bike >>

• Inspect the chain: Look for signs of wear, like rust, dirt buildup, or stiff links. If the chain looks like it’s on the verge of breaking, it’s time to replace it
• Choose the right lube: Apply a bike-specific lubricant to the chain. There are two main types of bike chain lubricants: wet lube (good for wet, muddy conditions) and dry lube (better for dry, dusty conditions)
• Apply the lube: Hold the bottle of chain lube and apply a small drop of lubricant to the inside of each chain link while rotating the pedals forward (either by hand or on a bike stand)
• Work the lube in: Once the lubricant is applied, rotate the pedals backwards and forward a few times. This will help work the lube into the moving parts of the chain and ensure it spreads evenly across all the links
• Let it sit: After working the lube in, let the bike sit for a few minutes so the lubricant can fully absorb into the chain
• Wipe off excess: Use a clean rag or cloth to wipe off any excess lubricant on the outside of the chain. The goal is to leave only a thin, even layer of lube on the inside, where it’s needed most. Excess lubricant on the outside can attract dirt and grime, making the chain dirty

• Test the brakes: Squeeze the brake levers and check for proper braking response. Make sure the brake pads are evenly aligned with the rim (or disc) and aren’t too worn down
• Check for noise: Listen carefully as you apply the brakes. Any squeaking, squealing, or grinding noises are signs that your brake pads are worn, misaligned, or contaminated with dirt. If you hear these sounds, it’s time to inspect and clean the pads
• Adjust if needed: If the brake pads are too close or too far from the wheel, they may need adjustment. Most bikes have an easy-to-adjust mechanism that can be fine-tuned for better performance
• Check brake cables: Look over the brake cables for any fraying or wear. If they’re damaged, they may need to be replaced to ensure safe stopping power

Take a look at this video for more tips on adjusting the brakes >>

• Check tyre pressure: Use a tyre pump with a pressure gauge to make sure each tyre is properly inflated. Refer to the tyre sidewall for the recommended PSI range
• Look for damage: Examine the tyres for any punctures, cracks, or excessive wear. If you notice any issues, replace the tyre or tube before hitting the road
• Tread check: If the tread is worn down or smooth, it’s time for new tyres. The tread is especially important for maintaining grip, so don’t skip this step

• Test shifting: While lifting the rear wheel, shift through all the gears to ensure they’re working smoothly. If the chain skips or struggles to shift, the derailleurs may need adjusting
• Check for chain stretch: Over time, chains can stretch, which may cause poor shifting. If the chain appears worn out or has noticeable stretch, consider replacing it to keep the shifting crisp

Take a few minutes to inspect the frame for any cracks, rust spots, or damage. If you find anything concerning, it may be worth getting it professionally checked.

• Tighten bolts: Ensure that all bolts on the bike, including the seat, handlebars, and wheels, are tightened properly
• Check accessories: Make sure any accessories, like lights, baskets, or racks, are securely attached and functioning

After you've gone through all the necessary checks and adjustments on your bike, it's important to take it for a short test ride. This step helps ensure that everything is functioning correctly and allows you to catch any potential issues that might not have been apparent during the stationary checks. 

• Don’t forget about your helmet! Make sure it still fits properly and is free from cracks or damage
• If you’re unsure about any aspect of bike maintenance, don’t hesitate to take your bike to a local bike shop for a professional tune-up