Bike Safety: Maintenance

1: PUMP YOUR TIRES

Inflate your tires to the proper PSI. The max PSI can be found on the sidewall of the tire. Know how to fix a flat? If not, watch this

2: CHECK YOUR FRONT WHEEL

Make sure the front wheel is secure. Seems obvious, but really, make sure it’s secure.

3: CHECK THE CHAIN

No kinks. No rust. No broken pins, plates or rollers. If you’re the overachiever type, try to clean and lube the chain while you’re at it.

4: CHECK THE SADDLE

Make sure it's secure and at the proper height. If it’s an Electra, we recommend just below hip height allowing for a comfortable ride.

5: BRAKE CHECK!

While standing still, make sure you can apply full braking force without the brake lever touching the handlebar. If it does, you might need an adjustment. This is where your local Electra dealer can help.

Next, while riding slowly, make sure the front brake works. Then, check the rear brake.

6: LIGHT IT UP

Ensure both front and rear lights are working, reflectors are in place, and all your accessories are secure.

7: KEEP IT CLEAN

Not only will your ride look fresh, but a cleaner bike is actually a safer bike.

Here are some tips

BIKE WASHING TIPS

• No power washers. Water is safe, but pressure washers, even your thumb over a water hose, can get water in places it shouldn’t be.
• If your bike has disc brakes, never spray anything on them.
• If you accidentally get polish or something else on the brake rotor, you can clean it with rubbing alcohol and a clean rag or paper towel.
• For smaller spots, use bike cleaner and polish once a month.
• To get a deeper clean, dilute mild dish soap (like Dawn) in water, use a sponge to clean, then rinse and dry.
• Keep water away from the chain. If it does get wet, dry it, then drip chain lube on it. Ride the bike for a few minutes to allow the chain lube to work its way into the chain, then wipe it with a rag to get excess oil off.