Intro to Bike Maintenance

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A person removing the rear wheel of a bicycle.

Your two-wheeled steed gives you a fun way to exercise, helps you run errands and spends quality time with you outdoors. For your trusty bike to stay in good working order, you need to occasionally return that love. In this class, you'll learn the basics of bike maintenance so you can keep your bike in great shape for many years. We'll cover everything from a routine pre-ride inspection to how to keep your drivetrain clean, lubricated and humming along.

Watch the full class video, or dive into specific topics in the chapters below. To play along at home, you'll need a few basic tools, many of which may already be in your tool kit.


Intro to Bike Maintenance: Full Class Video


Additional Resources:


Downloadable PDF:

A graphic showing basic bike tools


Shopping Resources:

Bike Tools

Bike Repair Stands



Chapter 1: Parts of a Bike


In this chapter, you'll learn:

  • Anatomy of a bike
  • Bike terminology
  • How the parts work together

Downloadable PDF:

A graphic showing different parts of a bike


Downloadable PDF:

Graphic: Valves, Brakes and Axles



Chapter 2: Pre-Ride Inspection


In this chapter, you'll learn:

  • How to properly inflate your tires
  • How to do a simple brake test
  • How to check your drivetrain
  • How to check your wheel quick-releases

Downloadable PDF:

A graphic showing the ABCs of a pre-ride inspection


Additional Reading:


Shopping Resources:

Bike Pumps


Chapter 3: How to Fix a Flat Tire


In this chapter, you'll learn:

  • How to take the wheel off your bike
  • How to remove the tire and tube from the rim
  • How to find the source of the flat
  • How to install the tire and a new tube back onto the rim
  • How to reinstall the wheel on your bike

Downloadable PDF:

A graphic showing step-by-step instructions for fixing a flat bike tire



Chapter 4: Drivetrain Maintenance


In this chapter, you'll learn:

  • How to check the chain and drivetrain parts for wear
  • How to do a basic drivetrain clean and lube
  • How and when to do a major clean and lube

Shopping Resources:

Bike Lubes and Cleaners