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Ensure your bike is ready for the season with this guide on maintenance, including wheel inspection, brake checks, chain lubrication, and insurance tips.
Published on June 2, 2025
Riding season is upon us, and excitement is in the air, but before you hit the open road, there are some important checkups to do on your bike so you can prepare for a safe ride.
Bicycle maintenance is necessary to keep your ride in tip-top shape. Regular inspection can prevent and protect your bike from squeaky wheels and other possible problems.
Here are the parts you should check before you take your bike for a spin:
Wheel and tires
As a first step, spin your wheels. If they are wobbly, squeak, or are not round, you will want to have them replaced. Also, check to see if your spokes are loose.
Use your fingers to squeeze between two spokes to check tension. They should be difficult to squeeze together. If they are loose, for safety reasons, they need to be replaced right away.
Check your tires for air pressure. They must be properly inflated to manufacturer requirements. If they do not have enough air in them, you will exert more energy pedaling harder than normal and also notice a difference in how your bike performs.
Having the proper level of air pressure also protects your rims from damage and prolongs the life of your tires. Tires need to be inspected for wear and tear as well. This will help prevent flats while you are out on your ride. Tubes should be replaced with new tires and if a tube has been patched, it should only be used to get you home and then replaced before your next ride.
Regular bike maintenance and inspection can help prevent issues, like squeaky wheels, and give you a safer, smoother ride.
The brakes should also spring back after release. Next, inspect the wheels while applying the brakes. Move the bike forward and backward—if the wheels continue to turn, the brake pads are worn and need replacing.
Additionally, ensure the brake pads are aligned correctly and make full contact with the rims, without rubbing the tire. If they’re not making proper contact, clean off any grit. Most brake pads have a wear indicator; if it’s worn down or gone, it’s time to replace the pads.
Handlebars
Handlebars should be adjusted for comfort and control. Tape and grips on the handlebar will need to be replaced if torn or thinned out as these can help keep your bike under control.
Key bike checkups include inspecting tires, brakes and the chain, as well as ensuring proper adjustments for comfort and control.
Chain lubrication
The chain is the most common part of the bike to collect dirt and grime. When not properly cleaned or lubricated, it can slow you down and wear out quickly. Lubrication should be done regularly, especially if you are riding in areas prone to dirt.
You’ll want to use the proper bike lubricant for the area you ride in such as by the beach or on dirt roads. Your local bike shop will have the lube that is best for the different elements in which you ride. Remember not to use too much lube, as excessive lube can attract dirt.
Pedals
Make sure your pedals are tightened. This helps ensure you’ll have a smoother and quieter ride.
Bottom bracket
The bottom bracket holds the crank system to the bike frame. There should be no creaking noises or looseness when you turn the crank system. If there is, we recommend taking the bike to a local shop for further inspection.
Headset
The headset is a short tube that connects the fork and the handlebars. The tube allows your handlebars to steer. Make sure when the handlebars are straight, your wheel is also straight.
To check the headset, hold the front brakes while gently pushing the bike forward and back. If you hear any clicking, you will need to have it tightened.
Now that you know how to prepare your bicycle for riding season, you'll want to consider protecting your ride with a Markel bicycle policy. Your bike is an investment, and you want to make sure you have the appropriate coverage for theft or damage to fit your needs. Bicycle insurance may provide coverage where there may be gaps or fine print exclusions in your auto, home and renters insurances.
Markel can offer a stand-alone bike insurance policy starting as low as $100 per year* and offer a variety of coverage levels and deductible options.
Each policy can be customized to fit you and your riding style. Coverage may include protection for damage caused by theft, crash, collision, fire, attempted theft, vandalism or hitting another object. Coverage of spare parts, cycle apparel, and rental reimbursement may also be included at no additional cost.
Get your free, no-obligation quote to protect yourself and your bicycle.
* Actual premium may vary based on coverage selected and value of the bike to be insured. Subject to terms, conditions and availability.