Back on the Bike: Keeping Your Bicycle Running Smoothly and Saving Money
With fuel prices soaring and service stations facing shortages, many Australians are reconsidering that old bicycle gathering dust in the garage. Cycling might not replace all car journeys, but it offers a handy and enjoyable option for quick trips to the shops, weekend joyrides, or parts of your commute. Over half of Australian motorists are reducing driving due to the crisis, making cycling a valuable tool in your transport arsenal.
Affordable Cycling Options
Even without owning a bike, cycling ranks among the cheapest transport modes. While some enthusiasts advocate for high-end models, older bicycles are often easier to repair and less attractive to thieves. Platforms like Facebook Marketplace feature durable 80s and 90s bikes at fuel-tank prices—just ensure the frame isn't cracked or bent. Volunteer-run workshops across Australia, such as the Ceres Bike Shed in Melbourne or Cycle Re-cycle Club in Sydney, sell refurbished secondhand bikes, providing budget-friendly alternatives.
Basic Bike Maintenance Made Simple
You don't need to be mechanically inclined to handle basic bike upkeep. Community cycling organisations often offer free checks, and bike shops provide affordable inspections. However, working on your bike yourself is a satisfying way to understand its mechanics. Focus on the chain, brakes, and tyres—key components that require regular attention. Online resources, especially YouTube, offer step-by-step guides. Many local councils and apartment complexes have public repair stations with stands and tools, though tyre pumps may be unreliable. For most tasks, a shifting spanner and Allen keys suffice.
Wheel and Tyre Care
Before riding, check your tyres by pumping them to the recommended pressure on the sidewall; if lacking a gauge, ensure they feel firm. For bikes unused long-term, replace inner tubes as rubber can corrode. Inspect tyres for cracks or wear, and check wheels for loose or broken spokes. While a few broken spokes might allow a ride to the shop, multiple failures pose safety risks.
Chain Maintenance Tips
Clean your chain with a rag and warm soapy water or a stiff brush, then apply a drop of lubricant to each link after drying. Avoid over-lubricating, as excess oil attracts grime. A $20 bottle of chain lube lasts months; WD-40 cleans but isn't ideal for lubrication. Surface rust is fine, but if inner links corrode or stiffen, consider a new chain. Chains, cables, and tyres cost from $20-$30 and should be replaced every year or two, making them worthwhile investments for frequent riders.
Brakes and Gears Check
Test brakes before riding; if levers feel loose or wheels don't stop fully, tighten the brake cable. Squealing may indicate oil or dirt on contact points. Rim brakes are easier to adjust, while disc brakes are best left to professionals. For gears, ensure smooth shifting without slipping or crunching noises; a bent derailleur might need tuning via YouTube tutorials or a bike shop.
Comfort Adjustments
Adjust your seat height so your leg is comfortably straight with the pedal at its lowest point. Tilt the seat to avoid soreness, and consider a wider or more padded seat if discomfort persists. While a racing stance is aerodynamic, it may not be comfortable; cruiser handlebars or extensions offer a more upright position.
Building Confidence on the Road
If returning to cycling feels daunting, use apps like Komoot or Google Maps to find bike paths and quiet streets. Many governments provide cycling maps with "shimmy routes" along back streets. Join a Bicycle User Group (Bug) or social riding club like Neighbourly Ride for free, leisurely rides to build strength and meet others. Start slow, enjoy the fresh air, and you'll quickly progress from short, puffed rides to effortless journeys.
