Bicycle spring check

Spring is approaching, and with it comes the time for outdoor activities. We're dusting off our bicycles and looking forward to using our eco-friendly and healthy mode of transport. But before we hop back in the saddle, we should give our trusty companions some TLC, and a thorough spring bike check-up is the perfect way to do just that.

Wheel cleaning

Start the spring season with a thorough bike cleaning – here's how:

The cleaning process is best done in individual steps.

1. First, we'll take care of the chain. Spray the chain with a suitable chain cleaner and then let it soak in for about five minutes.
   
   Important: The cleaner must not be degreasing and the disc brakes must be covered during cleaning.
   
2. Next, we'll deal with the rest of the bicycle. First, wash the bike with water using a pressure washer.
   
   Warning: Use the pressure washer only from a distance and with low pressure, otherwise dirt will be forced into joints and bearings.
   
3. Next, spray the bicycle with a suitable bicycle cleaner and let it soak in for another five minutes. Always ensure that no oil gets onto the brake disc or brake caliper. Should this happen, these areas must be thoroughly cleaned with brake cleaner.
   
4. Now, use an old toothbrush to clean the hidden and hard-to-reach areas, especially parts like dampers, seals, joints, suspension forks, and also the derailleur, so that they can be thoroughly cleaned of dirt.
   
5. Now that we have properly cleaned the wheel, the next step is to remove the wheel cleaner with clean water.

The bicycle has now been thoroughly cleaned. Next up is an inspection of the entire bicycle!

• Frame:
  Are there any hairline cracks in the frame? This is especially important for a carbon frame, as even a small hairline crack can cause structural damage and thus impair riding safety.
• Screw connections:
  Have any of the screws loosened? Is the quick-release lever on the saddle still tight? Ideally, use a torque wrench when tightening the screws.
  
  Attention : The recommended torque values ​​can be found in the instructions or directly on the individual parts.
• Brakes:
  Are the brakes still functioning as expected? If the grooves on the brake pads are no longer visible, they must be replaced immediately. Additionally, double-check that all the bolts connecting the brakes to the frame are tight. If hydraulic brakes are installed, be sure to also check that the brake hose is airtight.
• Circuit:
  Is the derailleur still working as it should? Is the currently selected gear changing even though this wasn't intended? If so, either adjust it yourself or have it checked at a specialist shop.
• Suspension fork and shock absorber:
  Is oil leaking from the rebound damping adjuster on the suspension fork? If components of the shock absorber or the suspension fork in general are causing a jerky response, then consult a specialist.
• Lighting:
  Does your bicycle's lighting comply with current traffic regulations? If not, check cables and connectors, and for battery-powered lights, check the charge level.
• Chain:
  See point 1 Cleaning
  Oiling the bicycle chain with a special chain oil should absolutely not be forgotten.
• Rims:
  Are there any visible damages to the rim? Are there any cracks or dents in the rim? Are all the spokes evenly tensioned? Does the rim wobble?

If we have indeed found defects, we will check whether they can be repaired or whether a visit to a specialist shop is necessary.

Then check all the parts again; perhaps we've overlooked something small? Small mistakes can easily creep in, which is why this step is one of the most important.

But now we've reached the end of our spring bicycle check.

Well done! Now we can start the new cycling season without any worries.