When the bike is new and for the first couple hundred miles, frequently
check and tighten the crank bolts. Cranks have a seating period, and many
times it takes a while for the tapers on the cranks to properly mate to
the spindle. If you ride any bike with loose cranks you can permanently
damage the cranks.
Check all other bolts for loosening. (i.e. stem, handlebars, seatposts,
brakes, brake pads, pedals, and eccentric set screws (under the bottom
brackets)).
Do not over tighten the deraileur-attaching bolts, especially the front
derailleur clamp. It only has to be tight enough to prevent movement.
Inspect the brake and derailleur cables for wear and broken strands.
If you have a bike equipped with a Travel Agent (pulley at the brakes)
pay special attention to the cable at the sharp bend and around the smaller
diameter pulley. If you see any signs of fatigue, replace the cable. Failure
to do so may results in a loss of brakes when you least want it.
Keep your chain clean and lubricated. It is a good idea to carry a small
squeeze bottle of your favorite chain lube so you can apply it at the first
sign of a squeaky or dry chain. It is better to over lube your chain and
wipe off the excess than skimp and run your chain dry.
Check the timing chains for excess slop. All chains stretch, especially
when they are new. (See: Eccentric / Timing Chain Adjustement)
Whenever you remove a part or bolt apply grease to the threads to assure
proper tightening and so you can remove it again in the future.
Occasionally remove the seatposts, wipe them off, wipe out the inside
of the frame seat tube, and spread grease on the seatpost and a little
inside the seat tube before reinstalling it.
We do not recommend using high pressure water (car washes) to clean
you bike unless you are planning to strip it down and re-grease everything
on the bike. Do not spray water directly at any bearing.
After cleaning your bike it is important to apply lubricant to all exposed
moving parts.
