Experts share how to make your bike last longer – and why regular care pays off
Posted on in Cycles News
Cycling experts have shared their top tips in a new Guardian feature revealing how simple maintenance habits can extend the life of a bike and save riders from costly repairs.
The article, titled “‘Once a fortnight would save people hundreds’: how to make your bike last longer, according to experts’”, details a variety of methods of “affordable habits” to increase bike longevity and includes contributions from a variety of cycling specialists.
Ryan Elson, co-founder of workshop management platform and ACT service partner Bikebook, stresses that keeping a bike clean and dry is a crucial thing cyclists can do to make their bikes last. He also advises against using pressure washers, which can strip grease from moving parts.
Elson comments: “Hand cleaning is the best way to do it, and use a rag rather than letting it drip dry because that can create rust. It’s all about keeping stuff dry and clean.”
The article brings together a range of practical guidance on how to make a bike last longer, focusing on small, regular actions that prevent long-term damage. Advice includes leaning the bike every couple of weeks to help remove dirt and salt that wear down parts, regularly lubricating the chain to prevent costly transmission wear, and checking tyre pressure before each ride reduces the risk of punctures and rim damage, and inspecting tyres for cracks or cuts can prevent sudden failures
In addition to this, the article also emphasises keeping brakes clean and replacing pads before they wear too far, as well as proper storage, ideally indoors or under a dry, waterproof cover. Furthermore, details such as using mudguards in winter and avoiding overtightening bolts can make a significant difference to the lifespan of key components according to specialists in the feature.
A number of respected cycling experts have contributed to the piece, including Lee Carter, head mechanic at Bespoke Cycling, who focuses on the basics of cleaning, tyre checks and routine servicing; noting that washing your bike once a fortnight could save hundreds over a year. Meanwhile, Mary Clark, from Bee Pedal Ready shared practical chain-care tips and highlights the dangers of contamination when cleaning around disc brakes.
The Guardian feature highlights many areas of bike maintenance that independent bike retailers can assist riders with through the deep knowledge and quality aftercare that is a cornerstone of the indie bike retail sector.
Through its partnership with Bikebook, the ACT continues to support independent retailers in promoting good maintenance and growing workshop sales. Find out how your shop can benefit from workshop management support here.