Velo Bike Shop

Things to do this Spring

Posted by Ashley on Apr 01, 2011 | General | 1 Comment

Here are some tips for things to do so that you are ready for the Spring season:

• Time to change the batteries in your smoke alarms
• Since rechargeable lights are not being used as often, it is important to charge them once a month during the sunny months so that the battery continues to hold a charge
• Basic Tune-Up: early Spring is a good time for your to get a tune-up, since bike shops get busy when the sun comes out. Get yours now so you are ready to ride when you want to.
• Check your tires and brake pads
• Helmets: Giro recommends that helmets be replaced after three years of use since the materials begin to harden and become less safe
• Shoe Cleats: should be inspected and worn cleats should be replaced. With the wide range of pedal systems, not all replacement cleats are stocked by your local shop

Look in your seat bag and make sure you have fresh supplies.

• Check your glue and patches. Glue tends to dry up even if it has not been opened.
• Check your tubes, patch the ones with holes, keep two on hand.
• Tire levers brake when they wear out, so be sure to carry two or three.
• Try your pump, and make sure it is not worn out. Check the rubber seal (valve) and make sure the pump works.
• If you use CO2s make sure you have at least two with you.
• Here are some other things you may want to keep in your bag: rubber gloves, short piece of electrical tape or duct tape, multi tool, valve adapter (or valve extender), a small 1"x1" piece of a sports bottle to use as a tire boot, small piece of wire, ouch pouch, and some emergency money.