How to maintain your bike?

Do you want to look good on your pedal-powered bike at all times? Do you want people to think “Oh, what a beautiful, well-maintained bike” when you pass them? Well, read on to learn how to maintain your trusty steed properly!

The tools

For effective maintenance of your bike, you will need :
  • A bike stand (optional)
  • A chain rest (optional)
  • A water jet or a bucket of water and a sponge
  • Degreaser or de-sealer
  • A soft bristle brush
  • A toothbrush (optional)
  • A cleaning product for this purpose
  • A cloth (microfiber or not)
  • Special chain oil

Installation

First of all, you need to install your bike properly. Place it in an open area so that you can move around it without any problems. You can also use a bike stand if you have one. Otherwise, turning your bike over or putting it against something (a wall, for example) will do the trick.

Disassembly

Once your bike has been chocked, you will need to remove its wheels and place it on the chainstay. If your bike is very dirty (covered with mud for example), do not hesitate to clean it with a jet of water or a wet sponge. After that, it will be ready for degreasing.

Degreasing

To degrease your bike’s transmission (chain, cassette, derailleurs, crankset and pedals), use a degreaser or a degreasing agent, as well as a soft brush (you can also use a toothbrush for more precision when cleaning the chain). Then leave the product to work for 5 minutes. Once this time has elapsed, rinse your bike thoroughly, paying particular attention to the areas that have been treated with the product (but avoid using a high-pressure jet, which could damage your bike).

Cleaning

For cleaning, use a cleaning product and a good sponge or microfibre cloth to scrub (you can also use a round brush for hubs and hard-to-reach areas). Do not use washing-up liquid, as this will damage your bike. Rinse your bike again.

Drying

It is now time to dry your bike. Use a cloth (microfiber or not). Wipe the chain, calipers and derailleurs first, then the frame. If possible, let your bike dry upside down so that all the water is removed.

Lubrication

It is now time to dry your bike. Use a cloth (microfiber or not). Wipe the chain, calipers and derailleurs first, then the frame. If possible, let your bike dry upside down so that all the water is removed. Once your bike is completely dry, it is time to lubricate the chain. Put a few drops of oil (specially formulated for this purpose) on the chain and turn it backwards so that the oil is distributed along the entire length of the chain. The maintenance procedure is the same for an EAB, but be especially careful that water does not damage the motor and battery connections when rinsing. If the battery is removable, leave it on the bike, it will protect the connections. The UrbanGlide team also offers an annual all-maintenance package for your bike (complete overhaul, brake tightening, installation of small accessories) in its Parisian shop. Information in the shop.
And now you are ready to pedal on your clean bike!