As we told you last week in OrilliaMatters, Sustainable Orillia is once again working with the Simcoe-Muskoka Health Unit and local bike shops to present an expanded bike challenge from May 11th to June 8th this spring.
This year’s event—“Sustainable Spokes – Healthy Folks”—was launched at an April 26th kick-off event at the Orillia Recreation Centre, 255 West Street South. Attendees of this event received instructions, rules of the contest, bicycle trail maps, and safety tips—and refreshments will be served!
For those of you who weren’t able to attend the launch, or who may not be part of the upcoming challenge… here from Paul Belanger, the owner of the Bike Stop in Orillia are some tips to get your bicycle in shape for a busy season ahead.
Getting Your Bicycle Ready for Spring
If you are planning to ride your bicycle to work or school, ensuring your bike is in good condition is crucial for a smooth, safe and dependable ride. Follow these essential tips to get your bicycle ready and avoid getting stranded on your first commute of the season.
1. Clean and Check for Wear and Tear. Begin by giving your bike a thorough cleaning. Use a gentle brush, mild detergent, and water to scrub away grime, dirt, and salt residue that might have accumulated during winter rides (or dust over the winter). Pay close attention to the drivetrain, chain, cassette, and derailleurs – a biodegradable degreaser may be required to clean these parts. A clean bike looks better and performs more efficiently.
While cleaning, inspect your bike for any signs of wear and tear. Check the brake pads for wear, ensuring they make full contact with the rims or discs. Look for cracks, dents, or rust on the frame, fork, and wheels. Tighten any loose bolts and, if you’re unsure about any part, consult with a bike mechanic for a professional assessment.
2. Inflate the Tires. Proper tire pressure is essential for a comfortable and efficient ride. Check the recommended tire pressure range, usually printed on the sidewall of the tire. Use a floor pump with a pressure gauge to ensure they are inflated correctly. Under-inflated tires can lead to sluggish handling and increased risk of flats, while over-inflated tires can make for a harsh and uncomfortable ride. Inspect the tires for any cuts, punctures, or embedded debris that could cause flats. Replace tires if the tread is worn down, the tire is cracking or if you notice any significant damage.
3. Lubricate. Proper lubrication is key to keeping your bike running smoothly and extending the lifespan of its components. Apply lubricant to the entire chain, wiping off any excess to prevent attracting dirt and grime. A well-lubricated chain ensures crisp shifting and reduces wear on the drivetrain. A good quality dry lube is best unless you regularly ride in wet weather or during the winter, in which case a wet lube will provide better protection. It is crucial to avoid getting any lubricant on the disc brake components. Inspect the pedals, bottom bracket, and headset for any signs of dryness or corrosion. Listen for any creaking or groaning that may indicate the parts may need to be regreased or replaced.
4. Check the Brakes. Your brakes are the most critical safety feature on your bike. Inspect the brake pads for wear, ensuring there is enough material to make full contact with the rims or discs. Adjust the brake pads if necessary to align them properly. If your disc brakes are squealing or lacking stopping power, it may be time to replace pads or rotors. Test the brake levers to ensure they engage smoothly and with enough force to stop your bike effectively. If you notice any sponginess or if the brakes don’t engage as they should, it might be time to replace the brake cables or bleed hydraulic brakes.
5. Check the Shifting. Smooth shifting will make your rides more enjoyable and efficient. It’s the kind of thing you take for granted until your drive train starts making an annoying noise or won’t shift properly. Check the shifting of your gears, ensuring they move cleanly through the entire range without skipping or hesitating. If you notice any issues, you can adjust the cable tension using the barrel adjusters on the shifters or derailleurs or seek help from your local bike mechanic.
You can follow these five steps or clean the bike up and bring it to The Bike Stop for a tune up and let them take care of steps 2 to 5.
Remember that safety is paramount, so always wear a properly fitted helmet, use lights and reflectors when riding in low-light conditions, and obey traffic laws and road etiquette.
Commuting by Bicycle Checklist
If you’re planning to commute to work or school by bicycle, there are a few essential items that you should consider having:
1. A bicycle: This is obvious, perhaps, but you need a reliable bicycle that fits you, is comfortable to ride, and is suited to your commuting needs.
2. Helmet: Protect your head by wearing a properly fitting helmet. It can significantly reduce the risk of injury in the event of an accident. Helmet manufacturers recommend replacing your helmet every five years as the internal foam hardens and becomes less effective at absorbing impacts. If you have had a crash and your helmet hit the ground, you need to replace it. You only get one brain – protect it!
3. Lights: If you’re commuting early in the morning or late at night, you should have a set of lights on your bike so you can see and be seen by other road users. Even during the day, a flashing light on the front and back ensures drivers notice you.
4. Lock: A good quality lock is essential to keep your bike safe and secure when you’re not riding it. If you have quick release wheels, be sure to secure the wheels as well as the frame of the bike.
5. Fenders: If you plan to commute rain or shine, fenders are essential to keep the water and mud from splashing onto you and your clothes. Even if you don’t plan to commute in the rain, the weather can be unpredictable.
6. Panniers or backpack: A bag or pannier is necessary to carry your work clothes, lunch, and other essentials.
7. Water bottle: Stay hydrated, especially if you have a longer commute.