Checking for loose bolts, applying lubricant to the moving parts of the bike, checking tire pressure, and cleaning and lubing the chain are bike safety maintenance activities that should be done on a regular basis.
Check for loose bolts
Start by safety checking your bicycle like you would any other vehicle on the road. The first thing to do is check for loose bolts; they can be easily overlooked on all bicycle frames.
Keep tire pressure at an appropriate level
It is important to monitor what specific pressures your tires need to be at as well as how often you should be checking them. It is also important to keep the tire pressure consistent because the wrong pressure (too high or too low) will decrease in the life span of the tire and could put you at risk of a flat.
Clean the chain and gears
Properly cleaning the chain and gears regularly will increase the lifespan of your bike’s drive train and will keep chain noise to a minimum. It can be hard to identify dirt or grime on the chain, but after cleaning it you will notice a big difference. You can use a cotton rag or an old toothbrush for this or you can buy a purpose-built cleaning set that can clean all sides of the chain at the same time. How often you need to clean your chain and gears depends on how much time you spend on your bike and the conditions you ride in. If you live in a damp climate and commute every day, check your drive train every few days and clean as required.
Lubricate the chain
Chain lube is something that should be applied every few weeks, again depending on how often you ride and in what conditions. Lubricating is not difficult, but it does take a little time. First, make sure your chain is clean and dry. Then apply the lubricant to the chain and wipe off any excess with a rag. The last part is very important, as excess lubricant will attract contaminants.
Check brake pad wear
Brake pads are designed to provide the necessary stopping power, but they will wear down over time. For disc brakes, make sure there’s material on the pad’s metal backing place. For rim brakes, watch for holes or gouges in the pad material. When this happens, it’s time to replace them with new brake pads.