Maintenance

Ten steps to service your bike for summer

How to ensure your steed is in tip-top condition for a summer of cycling

Get a new bike

Summer is coming...
Cleaning the bike should be one of your first priorities
Keep your chain in top condition (Pic: Mike Cotty/Media-24)
Ensuring that your derailleurs are properly adjusted will help to keep your shifting smooth
Give your wheels the once over ahead of the summer season
Prevention is better than cure when it comes to replacing a brake cable
Use a torque key to make sure all the key bolts on your bike are tight
A fresh wrap of handlebar tape can make a big difference to the feel of your ride
It's easy to be lured in by the prospect of a bargain but make sure you get the right size frame (Pic: Media24)
Do your research beforehand to work out what you want from your bike

Get a new bike

Of course, there is one other option when it comes to refreshing your bike for the summer – replacing it.

We all know the correct number of bikes to own is n+1, where n is the number you currently own, so at the moment you are one short – and so are we. Luckily, there’s no shortage of options when it comes to buying a new bike, but the choice can also be overwhelming. Luckily, we’ve got it covered.

Six essential considerations when buying a new bike

What material should the frame be made from? What are the key considerations you should make before parting with your hard-earned? How can you ensure it is the correct size?

Buyer’s guide: disc brake road bikes

Perhaps now is also a good time to make a big change in the bike you ride – disc brake road bikes are here to stay, so why not embrace them? Sportive and endurance bikes are also booming, with comfort a key buzz word in the bike industry.

If you’re in need of inspiration to kick-start your season then a new bike may well be the way to just go that.