Don't feel like spending over 100 euros for a bike service?
Then simply make your bike fit for spring yourself.
Here we explain in a clear and understandable way how this can be done without high costs.
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When there is snow and sub-zero temperatures, only the toughest saddle up their bikes.
Most of us keep our bikes in the basement or garage at best during the winter months.
But sometimes even outdoors if there is no other option.
With the official start of spring in March, it is high time to get your bike ready for the coming bike season.
It is also worth taking a look at the completeness of the cycling equipment.
But with service prices rising, you think twice about taking your bike to a workshop or the nearest bike shop for inspection.
Depending on the maintenance work that needs to be done, it can quickly cost over 100 euros!
If you want to carry out an initial all-round check and minor repairs at low cost, it is best to roll up your sleeves yourself.
This is particularly convenient with a bicycle repair stand.
We have summarized how to do this in this guide in a way that is easy to understand and clear for you.
Table of contents
What are the main steps in a self-service bike inspection?
Thoroughly clean the bike
lubricate the chain
Check wheels and tires
Maintain suspension fork and damper
Can I also do the bike service myself for my e-bike?
What are the main steps in a self-service bike inspection?
1. Thoroughly clean the bike
Dust, dried mud, smeared chain oil - before you start with the actual maintenance, it is important to clean the bike thoroughly.
Detailed instructions for use can be found here.
This is particularly efficient with special bicycle cleaners, which also dissolve grease well.
Cleaning brushes for narrow spaces, for example on fullys, make cleaning even easier.
An indispensable tool when cleaning your bike: the chain cleaning brush.
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Chain cleaning device in a set with cleaning scrubber brush tool
©Amazon
Only €13.88 on Amazon
Save time and money in a set
: the bicycle chain cleaner is first filled with a special cleaning agent.
Then simply clipped in without removing the chain from the bike.
Let the chain run through by turning the pedals - done.
Saving tip
Instead of buying expensive special brushes for cleaning the bicycle frame, just look it up in the drugstore.
There are cheap glass brushes, toothbrushes or dishwashing brushes that also do a good job.
2. Lubricate the chain
A bicycle chain can withstand an average load of up to one ton.
It is one of the most stressed parts of the bike and literally its "drive".
That's why it deserves special attention after a long break.
After thorough cleaning with chain cleaner and chain brush, lubrication is the order of the day.
Where grandpa might have used the good old "all-purpose lubricating oil" from squeaky doors, high-tech is the order of the day today.
High-quality special chain oils are optimally distributed, are friction-resistant and care at the same time.
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WD-40 Specialist bicycle chain spray 250 ml
© WD-40
29% cheaper at Amazon
One for (almost) everything
: WD-40 Specialist with protection and care for the chain, pivot axles, cables and shifters.
Top: Also works against corrosion and leaves a long-lasting protective film.
Special case brakes
According to the StVO, a bicycle is not roadworthy without working brakes.
A short brake check before the first tour should therefore be mandatory.
There are usually two brakes on a bicycle: one for the front and one for the rear.
A distinction is made between rim brakes (V-brakes) and disc brakes.
Since the setting requires absolute instinct and technical know-how, a specialist is the first point of contact here.
At least if you notice rough grinding or even a loss of function.
3. Check wheels and tires
A first glance often says a lot: cracks, dents and damage are a case for a new coat.
If the bike has been standing for a long time, the tires have often lost air.
How many bar pressure is optimal is usually written on the sidewall of the tire.
The spokes of the wheel should also be checked.
To do this, press two adjacent spokes together with your thumb and forefinger about a hand's width away from the spoke cross.
Shifts between 8 and 10 mm are still ok.
If it is more than that, a specialist will have to tighten the spokes.
Buying tip "flat-less" bicycle tires
4. Maintain the suspension fork and damper
All moving parts on the bike deserve an extra portion of care after the winter break.
First comes the cleaning.
Always spray the cleaner onto a soft, lint-free cloth first.
This prevents excess cleaner from running down the standpipe and dirt from getting into the dip tube.
Most suspension forks and shocks do not need any additional lubrication because the suspension fork itself already contains a lubricant.
It automatically forms a thin film on the pipes as they sink.
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Suspension fork spray 100 ml in a practical spray can
© Brunox
Suspension fork spray 25% cheaper at Amazon
Stay away from penetrating oil
Many bikers appreciate the versatility of penetrating oil.
Also for cleaning and lubricating the spring elements.
But beware: It can damage seals and is so thin that it flushes dirt from the outside into the interior of the suspension fork.
If the dirt mixes with the actual fork or damper oil, the suspension fork will quickly break.
Can I also do the bike service myself for my e-bike?
The bike service on the e-bike is a bit more complicated than on a normal bike due to the built-in technology.
However, some maintenance work can easily be carried out yourself – even as a beginner.
1. Cleaning the e-bike
The most important step on the way to DIY bike service is cleaning, even for electric bikes.
In contrast to normal bicycles, the garden hose or high-pressure cleaner should not be wildly used with e-bikes.
Because: The sensitive electronic components must not get wet.
A special cleaner can be extremely useful for e-bikes.
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Sports e-bike cleaner 2-in-1 pack with atomizer
© TUNAP
Free delivery via Amazon
If e-bikes are cleaned with normal bicycle cleaners, there is a risk of a short circuit due to the increased electrical conductivity of the components.
In addition, the sensitive electrical contact points could corrode in the long term.
The special thing about this special cleaner for e-bikes: it prevents moisture bridges and conductivity and prevents corrosion.
2. Check electronic components
Actually quite a matter of course - but that's exactly why it's often forgotten: If you wake your e-bike from hibernation, you should take a close look at all the electronic components.
Make sure all cables and connectors are undamaged and free of kinks.
In addition to the battery, this also includes the motor, controller and display.
Must-have: a high-quality pole spray.
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Atlantic battery pole spray Electro protection spray for e-bikes
© Atlantic B
€4.95 instead of €7.90 at Rose Bikes
Pole grease for the connections is one of the most important must-haves when servicing an e-bike at home.
Because it displaces moisture and thus contributes to the permanent protection of the electronic connections.
Simply spray onto the dry and clean battery poles.
The blue coloring allows control for an even coating.
3. Maintain battery
The battery is the heart of your e-bike and requires regular maintenance.
The following applies not only to bicycle service at home: Charging regularly, but not overcharging, extends the service life.
When the new season starts and the battery is used regularly, it should be removed and stored in a cool and dry place between uses.
4. Service from a professional
Except for the features mentioned above, the service for e-bikes does not differ from that for normal bikes.
But if it gets "technical" and the electronics don't work after a long break, nothing helps: Now a professional should do it.
It's worth taking a look at the bill, because a lot of new bikes are still covered by the guarantee.
And many bike shops do minor maintenance work as a gesture of goodwill.
It's always worth asking politely.
Rubric list image: © Yuri Arcurs/PantherMedia
