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Between college commutes, work trips and weekend rides, Tumkur cyclists put a lot of kilometres on their bikes. A little regular maintenance prevents sudden breakdowns and makes every ride quieter and safer.

Quick Checks Before Every Ride

• Tyre pressure: Give each tyre a firm squeeze. If it feels very soft, pump it up before hitting SS Puram Main Road or BH Road.
• Brakes: Squeeze both levers while walking the cycle. They should feel firm and stop the wheel quickly.
• Chain: If it looks dry or rusty, wipe it with a cloth. A dirty chain wears out faster and can make pedalling noisy.
• Lights and reflectors: Especially important if you ride early morning or after sunset.

Weekly Routine (10–15 Minutes)

Pick a day that suits you, like Sunday evening, and follow this list:

1. Clean the drivetrain: Wipe the chain, chainring and cassette with a cloth. For heavy dirt, use mild soap and water, then dry fully.
2. Lubricate the chain: Drop a small amount of lube on each link, then wipe off the extra with a cloth so dust doesn’t stick.
3. Check wheel alignment: Lift each wheel and spin it. It should spin straight without rubbing the brake pads.
4. Tighten loose bolts: Check handlebar, seatpost, and carrier bolts for any movement.

Monthly Checklist or Every 400–500 km

• Inspect brake pads: If grooves are almost gone or the pad looks very thin, it’s time to replace them.
• Look for tyre damage: Cuts, bulges or very smooth tread reduce grip, especially during monsoon.
• Check cables: If brake or gear cables look rusty or have broken strands, plan to replace them soon.
• Listen for creaks: Noises from the bottom bracket or headset usually mean the bike needs professional attention.

When to Visit a Workshop

Some repairs are safer when done by an experienced mechanic. Bring your cycle to Raja Cycle Mart if you notice:

• Strong wobble in the wheel even after checking spokes.
• Creaking or clicking from the crank area while pedalling.
• Brakes that feel weak even after new pads.
• Gears slipping or jumping when climbing a flyover.

You can meet Mr. Shaber and our team on the About Raja Cycle Mart page before visiting.

Storage Tips for Tumkur Weather

Whenever possible, park your cycle indoors or under a roof to protect it from rain and strong sun. After a rainy ride, wipe the frame, chain and bolts to prevent rust. For long breaks (for example during exams or travel), clean and lube the chain before parking.