Getting your bike serviced before your goal event

New Gravel Kings, waxed chain, brake pads and rotors, all the bolts tight.

Too many athletes make the critical mistake of neglecting their bike maintenance, arriving at their goal events with suboptimal equipment. This is one area that is entirely within your control and can significantly impact your performance and overall race experience. By taking proactive steps and addressing bike service well in advance of race day, you can unlock valuable watts that might otherwise be lost and drastically reduce the risk of mechanical issues that could jeopardize thousands of dollars in race costs and months of dedicated training. A well-maintained bike is not just about speed; it's about reliability, safety, and confidence on race day.

Finding a Reliable Shop

This is Twin Ports Cyclery in Duluth ,MN. Definitely worth a visit.

Securing a reliable local bike shop is paramount to your success. While I personally handle most basic maintenance tasks, I have cultivated relationships with several trusted shops known for their efficiency and commitment to meeting deadlines. These are the businesses I confidently recommend to my coached athletes and bike fitting clients, understanding that their quality of work directly reflects on my own reputation. When choosing a shop, prioritize fairness, transparency, and a willingness to clearly explain any issues and proposed solutions. If you encounter condescending attitudes or vague explanations, do not hesitate to seek an alternative. Race season is not the time to gamble on a second chance. Look for a shop that values clear communication and demonstrates expertise. Word-of-mouth recommendations from other cyclists or local clubs can be an excellent starting point for finding a reputable establishment.

Things To Look For

Chain Maintenance and Condition

Chain maintenance is a fundamental aspect of bike upkeep that directly impacts drivetrain efficiency. The current trend of waxing chains has gained widespread popularity, and for good reason. I am a strong advocate for chain waxing and have even invested in an ultrasonic cleaner to ensure a meticulously clean chain, especially when dealing with a new one. It's crucial to understand that the grease coating on new chains is primarily for corrosion protection during shipping and storage, not as a long-term lubrication solution. This factory grease should be thoroughly degreased before applying a high-quality chain lube or drip wax.

Chains "stretch" over time, though this phenomenon is more accurately attributed to wear in the rollers and pins rather than actual elongation of the links themselves. Regular monitoring of chain wear is essential for optimal shifting performance and to prevent premature wear on other drivetrain components like cogs and chainrings. Learning to use a chain wear guide is a valuable skill, or you can simply bring your bike to your trusted shop for routine checks.

For some newer, narrower chains, traditional pin-style wear tools may not provide accurate readings. In such cases, I prefer the Abbey Tool LL for its precision, though I also keep a Park Tool CC-2 on hand. Replacing a worn chain proactively is a cost-effective measure that can significantly extend the life of your entire drivetrain.

The old Nuevo Record brakes werent very good for stopping but hands down the prettiest rim brakes ever.

Brakes

Brakes are arguably the most critical safety component on your bike, and their optimal performance directly contributes to faster, more confident riding. Developing a keen ear for the distinct sound of worn brake pads is a foundational skill. Understanding when your hydraulic brakes require bleeding to restore full power and responsiveness, and knowing how to replace disc brake pads, are also essential. While delving into the intricacies of bleeding hydraulic systems can seem daunting, it is an entirely achievable skill with patience and a methodical approach. There are numerous online tutorials and resources available to guide you through the process, or your local shop can provide a valuable service. Regularly inspecting your brake levers for proper feel and ensuring your pads are not contaminated with oil or grease are also important checks.

Cables and Shifting

Both shift and brake cables require regular replacement to prevent performance degradation and sticking within their housing. Furthermore, promptly replacing frayed cable ends is crucial to avoid potential mechanical failures. The complexity of this task varies significantly depending on the internal or external routing of your cables. Even if you rely on a professional for this service, understanding what signs to look for will empower you to identify potential issues early.

Derailleur issues are a common source of frustration for cyclists. While electronic shifting systems generally offer trouble-free operation and are adjusted via a dedicated app, mechanical derailleur systems necessitate periodic fine-tuning of cable tension and indexing.

It is also remarkably common for a derailleur hanger to require adjustment after even a minor crash or impact. These "sacrificial" parts are designed to bend under heavy impact, thereby protecting the more expensive frame. If your bike exhibits "ghost shifting," particularly in the middle gears, a bent derailleur hanger is a very common culprit. This is an ideal issue to bring to your local bike shop, as specialized tools are often required for proper alignment.

Bottom Bracket

The bottom bracket, along with other bearings in the headset and suspension components, demands regular attention and eventual replacement. If your bike is emitting an inexplicable creaking or clicking noise, a good starting point for diagnosis is to remove the chain from the crank and manually spin the cranks to isolate the sound.

Headset bearings are prone to loosening, so much so that it's a standard part of my post-bike fit check before returning a client's bike. Learning how to identify and rectify a loose headset is a simple yet critical skill that can prevent premature frame wear and, more importantly, avert a potential crash. A loose headset can manifest as a knocking sensation when applying the front brake or even a subtle "clunking" when riding over bumps.Bolts

In general, the bolts most susceptible to loosening on a bicycle are those securing water bottle cages to the frame. If you suddenly feel as though your bike is "falling apart" beneath you, safely stop and gently wiggle your bottle cages. You'll quickly discern if they need tightening. The other crucial bolts that require regular inspection and proper torque are the quick releases or thru-axles responsible for securing your wheels. Always ensure these are snug and torqued to the manufacturer's specifications to prevent wheel detachment, which can have catastrophic consequences. Investing in a small torque wrench for common bike bolts can be a wise decision.

Tires

Approaching a goal event with fresh tires instills a significant boost of confidence. Conversely, arriving with tires already sporting plugs or patches dramatically diminishes your chances of success. New tires offer superior grip, puncture resistance, and often a more compliant ride. While on the subject of tire repair, mastering the fundamental skills of replacing an inner tube or plugging a tubeless tire is indispensable. These skills can save you from a lengthy and inconvenient walk home or from having to rely on the kindness of a good Samaritan. Practice these skills at home so you're not learning them for the first time by the side of the road. Also, consider the terrain and conditions of your event when selecting tire type and pressure.

In Closing

Whether your sights are set on the iconic Marin Century, a challenging gravel epic, or any other incredible event you've been diligently preparing for, let's ensure you are set up for an awesome day on the road or trail. By equipping yourself with this foundational knowledge and implementing a proactive action plan for getting your machine into tip-top shape, you'll not only maximize your performance but also enhance your enjoyment and safety. Don't let preventable mechanical issues derail your dreams; make bike service a non-negotiable part of your event preparation.

See you at the Marin Century!