Bike Maintenance 101: guide for a smooth ride

Before you mount up, run a quick inspection to catch any issues early. This should include checking tyre pressure, brake function and the chain condition.

Pre-ride inspection: the M-check every time

The M-check is a simple, visual and hands-on bike safety inspection you can do before every ride. It’s called the M-check because the pattern you follow across the bike – starting at the rear wheel, up to the saddle, down to the pedals, up to the handlebars, and down to the front wheel – traces the shape of a letter M.

• check tyre pressure and look for cuts or embedded debris
• squeeze both brakes and ensure they grip firmly
• spin the pedals backward and check the chain for rust, stiffness or slack

Cleaning and lubrication: keeping your drivetrain healthy

A clean, well-lubricated drivetrain (chain, cassette and chainrings) ensures smooth shifting and prevents wear.

• rinse your bike gently with low pressure, avoiding high-powered jets that can force water into bearings
• apply degreaser to the chain and cassette, scrub with a brush, rinse and dry thoroughly
• apply lubricant sparingly to chain links while turning the pedals backward, then wipe off any excess to prevent grit build-up.

Tyres and wheels: safety starts at the ground

Tyres and wheels are your contact with the road or trail, so regular care is essential.

• inflate tyres to the pressure recommended on the sidewall (this differs for road and mountain bikes)
• inspect wheels for wobbles, loose spokes or damage
• have a professional check wheel alignment if needed.

Brakes and gearing: ensuring control and performance

Reliable braking and smooth gear changes make every ride safer and more enjoyable.

• inspect brake pads and rotor or rim surfaces; replace pads when worn or if braking feels soft
• check gear cable tension and derailleur alignment; slow or noisy shifting often signals an adjustment is needed.

Bolts, contact points and comfort: fine-tuning your ride

Small details make a big difference to comfort and control.

• tighten bolts on the stem, handlebars, saddle post and pedals; use a torque wrench where possible
• check saddle height – your leg should be almost straight at the bottom of the pedal stroke
• ensure handlebars are aligned and grips secure.

Maintenance schedule: how often should you do this?

Consistency keeps your bike performing well and avoids costly repairs.

• before every ride: quick M-check of tyres, brakes and chain
• weekly (or after wet or dusty rides): clean and lubricate the chain, check tyres and bolts
• monthly: deep clean, degrease drivetrain, check for wear on the chain, cassette and brake pads
• annually: full professional service for bearings, wheels and suspension if fitted.

When to seek professional help

Some tasks are best left to the experts.

• if bearings in hubs, bottom bracket or headset feel rough or noisy
• if shifting skips even after adjustments – parts may be worn
• if you’re unsure about torque settings on carbon frames or disc brakes.

Further reading (Australia)

• Bicycle Network – Bike maintenance basics
• CyclingTips – How to clean and lube your chain
• Bicycle Queensland – Simple bike maintenance guide
• RACQ – Cycling safety and maintenance tips

A little regular care goes a long way. A few minutes each week on bike maintenance will boost safety, extend your bike’s lifespan and you'll enjoy a smoother, more confident ride every time.