Cycling is not only a fun activity for the weekend, but also an environmentally friendly choice for everyday life. The seasonality of Latvia, however, means that in autumn we usually prepare our bikes for hibernation, and in spring we have to make sure they're ready for use. But before you rush your bike to the shop for maintenance, find out how you can prepare your bike for the new season at home!
Although we're always happy to assist with insurance matters, when it comes to bike mechanics and maintenance, we believe it's best to leave to the pros. Cycling activist and Gravel Weekend organizer Karlis Berlands shares his tips on bike-prep below.
Tires, tires, TIRES
Everyone can handle the basics in preparing their bike for the new season, but it's important to have these two items available to you – a pump and special chain lube. These will come in handy not only at the start, but also during the season.
Avoid riding with soft or flat tires, as this can damage the wheels of the bike and make the ride slow and uncomfortable. If you're looking for a new pump, Karlis recommends a floor pump, which is the most convenient way to inflate your tires. However, if you plan to take it with you on trips, a hand pump will be a smaller and more compact choice.
If you don't have a pump at home but want to go for a drive today, you can head over to the nearest petrol station, but keep in mind that they might not have a slim valve necessary for bike tires.
Important! (vai izsaukuma zīmes emoji) The preferred pressure for each tire is clearly marked on the sidewall of each tire and should be observed when inflating.
Lubricate the chain
For this purpose, use only the specialized oil designed specifically for chain lubrication. Olive oil should be reserved for salads and bearing grease for bearings. If possible, clean the chain with a brush and a special chain cleaner that dissolves old, pre-applied oil before lubricating the chain anew.
Give it a proper scrub
Use a damp cloth to clean off dust and dirt accumulated over the off-season from all parts of the bike, except the chain and brake discs (if the bike has them). If you cannot wash your bike at home, you can do it, for example, at a self-service car wash, but you need to be careful with the water pressure. It is important that water does not get on the bearings of the wheel hubs, pedal axles or handlebars. After washing, wipe the bike thoroughly!
Take it for a spin!
Once you've done all this, check that the brakes are working as they should, that the gears are shifting properly, that the bike handles smoothly and that there are no suspicious noises or loose parts in the wheels or handlebars. If everything is in order, you're ready to start the cycling season! (confetti emoji)
If something's not working, Karlis recommends that you go to a bike repair shop and have your bike checked by a technician. If you don't have the skills or interest to learn how to fix your bike yourself, he recommends that you leave anything other than tire inflation, bike washing and chain lubrication to the pros. Remember that technicians will never be happy to deal with "I tried but failed" cases. If you don't want to be on the receiving end of annoyed looks, don't touch! (side eye emoji)
Safety first
Bike lights. Check that they are fitted (white in the front, red in the back) and working. As with cars, in Latvia it is advised to use bike lights at all times of the day to help drivers see you.
Reflectors and a helmet. Although we often don't want to use them because it's not stylish, please, reconsider. Even if you're beyond confident in your own abilities, you can never be sure about other people on the road. It can go from a joyful ride to an accident in a second!
Dress for the weather. To avoid a runny nose and sore throat as a result of your first spring rides, remember to dress appropriately. Choose warm but breathable clothes, wrap a scarf, bring gloves and wear a thin hat under your helmet to protect your ears from the wind.
A quality lock. If you plan to leave your bike somewhere, it's definitely worth investing in a secure bike lock that will take the thieves an uncomfortably long time to get open.
Avoid unexpected costs
Karlis points out that many things can happen when cycling, so every active cyclist should also buy insurance to cover losses in case the bike is stolen, if you get into an accident and get injured, or if you damage your bike or someone else's property. Balcia offers a unique City Combo insurance policy that will cover all these losses. What's more, a single policy will cover all of your family's rides and liabilities!
The better prepared you are for the new cycling season, the safer you can feel when you go out for your daily commute or weekend rides. Download the Balcia mobile app and buy insurance or submit claims anytime, anywhere with just a few clicks. And if you're interested in insurance jobs from home, take a peek at our job openings!
