Performing regular maintenance on a bicycle will improve its performance and longevity, and reduce the risk of breakdowns. The exact schedule for a particular bicycle will depend on how it is used: its weekly mileage, the weather conditions, road (or off road) surface conditions and so on. Most parts will need attention and possible replacement every year or two; if this is done, however, a bicycle can be maintained in good working order for decades
Safety and Emergency Repair Checklist
Properly fitting helmet (can only get 2 fingers under straps)
Sunglasses or other eye protection
Pump (consider a pump frame that attaches to bike)
Patch kit or spare tube
Toolkit for basic repairs, including wrenches that fit your bicycle
Rain gear
Your driver's license or other ID, plus an emergency contact person and medical information
First aid kit
Reflectors and flashing rear safety light
Brightly-colored clothing to improve visibility
A few Euros for emergencies
Mobile phone
Comfort and Clothing Checklist
Padded gloves to reduce pressure and "road shock," which can cause numb or tingling fingers
Bike shoes with firm soles make pedalling more efficient
Bike shorts with a padded lining eliminate seams and make cycling more comfortable.
Cyclists typically wear shorts made without seams — and no underwear — to eliminate sources of chafing and pressure points
Anatomic bike seat. Bicycle seats (saddles) come in a variety of shapes and sizes. To find the best one for you, try several types.
Jacket to block wind and rain.
Arm warmers, leg warmers, extra clothing as appropriate
Clothing that wicks moisture will keep you dry and comfortable
Sunscreen / lip balm with sun protection
Clipless Pedals
Many cyclists use clipless pedals that allow cycling shoes to lock into place. A simple twist of the foot releases the shoe from the pedal. Clipless pedals allow cyclists to pull up as well as push down on the pedals and create a much more efficient pedal stroke and faster speeds. Sunscreen / lip balm with sun protection
Ensure that the cleats on you shoes are not worn beyond the recommended limits
Other Essentials Checklist
Map or cue sheet or good directions
Energy foods, snacks or extra cash
Adequate water and water bottle cage or hydration pack
Pre-Ride Safety Inspection
Before each cycle perform a safety check of your bicycle. This only needs to take a minute or two, but will help prevent avoidable accidents.
Tyre Pressure
Check the tyres for proper inflation (marked on the side of the tyre). One of the simplest things you can do is the one that can have the greatest effect, and that surprisingly, people most often overlook. Paying attention to keeping the proper level of air pressure in your tires accomplishes many things:
Makes pedaling easier
Protects your rims from damage
Prolongs the life of your tires
Makes it much less likely that you'll get flats.
Checking for proper air pressure in your tires before every ride is quick and easy to do.
Check the tire treads for excessive wear or other damage, such as embedded glass or other objects.
Check the brakes.
Spin the wheels to check for rubbing and then apply the brakes to ensure they stop the bike smoothly and evenly. Check the brake pads for excessive wear.
Check the cables and housing to make sure there is no fraying or splitting.
Check the wheel quick release levers to ensure they are secure.
Check for any loose parts or other mechanical problems.
Do a slow-speed ride and inspect bicycle, brakes, and shifting before you leave your driveway.
Following these guidelines will go a long way to enjoying your bike rides and will often help you prevent unexpected incidents or a long walk home.
Clean Your Bike
After the ride, if the moving parts have got muddy or picked up road salt, give the bike a quick hose down. It's much easier doing it now than after it has dried!
(washing with a bike cleaner helps get rid of dried on and hard to get off grime.)
Keep wheel rims free of oil
Keep drive train, derailleur, jockey wheels and other moving parts moving freely
Good time to check for loose parts, rough or loose bearing, tyres condition etc