ANN/THE STAR – Few experiences can match the sheer joy and liberating feeling of jumping on a bicycle and venturing into the vast expanse of the great outdoors.
Regardless of whether you ride casually, revel in fitness, or boast seasoned expertise, there’s one unwavering truth: regular maintenance is paramount.
Just like any finely-tuned machine, a bicycle demands tender care and devoted attention to maintain its peak performance and guarantee a safe and effortless riding journey.
Each part, from the tirelessly spinning wheels to the intricate gears propelling the machine forward, plays a pivotal role in ensuring the flawless operation of this marvelous two-wheeler.
In this fast-paced world, where time is of the essence, dedicating a little effort to the regular upkeep of the bicycle can make all the difference, allowing one to relish the joys of cycling without worry.
The basic service on the two-wheeler should be conducted at least once every three months.
Bicycle boutique owner Jeff Siow, who runs USJ Cycles in Subang Jaya, Selangor, emphasised the significance of proper maintenance for years of usage. “Keeping the bicycle clean and regularly serviced by a technician is important.”
Siow advised paying attention to moving parts, such as the chain and gears, for signs of wear and tear.
Replacing the chain after 2,000 kilometre (km) of usage is recommended, as a worn chain can lead to gear complications. To prolong the lifespan of the drivetrain, Siow suggested regular servicing and cleaning and cultivating a maintenance culture by keeping bikes clean after each ride.
This enhances the bike’s performance and lowers the cost of its upkeep in the long term.
While basic service packages, which include a three-point inspection of the bike’s chain, brakes, and handlebar alignment, are available at reasonable prices, advanced service packages cater to specific needs and conditions. Neglecting maintenance can lead to severe damage, sometimes rendering repairs futile and the purchase of a new bike necessary.
Apart from servicing components like brake pads, maintaining proper air pressure in the tyres ensures longevity.
Siow said the minimum and maximum air pressures on a tyre are clearly labelled on the sidewall of the bike tyre.
Folding bicycles, a popular choice for multimodal commuting, demand regular attention to their unique mechanisms.
Johnny Ng of My Bicycle Shop in Shah Alam, Selangor, highlighted the importance of regularly inspecting folding bikes for safety.
Proper maintenance ensures these bikes remain reliable and noise-free from their locking hinges during rides.
Like any other bicycle, he said the foldies must also be maintained once every three months to ensure roadworthiness.
“Regularly serviced and maintained bicycles will last longer and hardly break down. I have customers still riding their folding bikes that are over 15 years old,” he said.
Ng highlighted that high-quality bikes from trusted brands come with a warranty and offer one-on-one replacements for manufacturing defects.
However, he warned against purchasing cheap bikes from Internet retailers, as they often compromise safety due to inferior materials and components leading to breakdowns after just a few rides.
People may initially prefer cheap bikes but eventually face higher repairs and parts replacement expenses in the long run.
As for upkeep costs, the average price for regularly servicing a folding bike is approximately MYR120 per appointment.
Regardless of the bike type, well-maintained bicycles provide a smooth and safe riding experience, while neglect can lead to costly repairs and compromises in safety.
Cultivating a good maintenance culture is crucial for enjoyable and trouble-free cycling adventures.
So, keep your two-wheeler in tip-top condition and pedal for endless cycling delights. – Sammy Cheong
