For maintaining you bicycle properly, you need to have regular preventive and protective maintenance. You can do some of these things on your own while some others may require the help of a professional. Several parts of the bicycle require regular oiling, greasing and inspection. These are brakes, tires, chain, handlebar and wheels.

Tires have to be inflated according to the specifications given by the manufacturers. This is because they undergo maximum wear and tear. They should be checked for air pressure, signs of wear and tear or ripping. Regular adjustment and tuning be also required for the wheels. Wheels may collide with hard things and this may lead to twists and dents in them. They thus need regular inspection and the best way to inspect them is to rotate them fast and then observe.

The wheel is all right if it spins without moving sideways. You should tighten it in case it shakes sideward. Spokes should also be tightened and attached to the rims tightly. The spokes should be immediately replaced in case they are damaged as they transmit pressure and are extremely important.

The handlebar should be in a proper position if you want to get the best out of your bicycle. Its height should be perfect, neither too low nor too high. However it should be such that it is comfortable to hold. It's alignment with the front wheel should also be proper. This is required for smooth changes in direction. Front fork is also very important. It should be fastened to the post of the handlebar. It helps in stabilizing the handlebar. The pedals should be secured tightly and they should be regularly checked.

It's most important to check brakes regularly for safety purposes. For checking the brakes, they should be squeezed and the bike should be rolled ahead. If they are working fine, the wheel will not roll and brake pad will not touch the tire (it will be there on the rim). The brake cables are loose if they touch the handlebar when pressed. Tighten them right away in case they are loose.

To ensure smooth and swift movements, lubrication of the chain is a must. Regular cleaning with a de-greaser is required to remove all the dirt that may have collected on the grease. Put new grease once the old one has been removed. The will prevent the chain from getting stuck or jumping the teeth.

You don't require any high tech instruments to keep your cycle in proper position. You just need to keep a check on it regularly. So take out some time and keep your bicycle in prime riding condition.