Covered a distance of 12,000 miles without servicing my bicycle, and here's the amount I had to shell out for its restoration.
Refurbished Bike 'Blanche' Hits the Road Again After Extensive Service
After four years of tireless journeys and thousands of miles under its belt, 'Blanche', a 2007 Specialized Tarmac Expert, has undergone a comprehensive service to ensure it remains a reliable companion for its owner.
Rescued from a skip in 2021, 'Blanche' has seen numerous cycle tours across the UK and Europe, including the iconic John O'Groats to Lands End, Calais to Nice, and a tour around Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. Despite the extensive use and occasional gear miss-shifts, a creak from the bottom bracket, and a "distinct ring of death" on the steerer tube, the bike has remained a trusty steed.
The service, which cost approximately £1,170.29, included the replacement of worn-out components such as tires, brake pads, chainrings, and an atomised cassette, along with the rethreading and facing of the bottom bracket due to a lack of grease and paint covering the outer shell. The rims, though expensive, were in need of maintenance. The tech editor advises that neglecting essential maintenance can lead to serious issues.
The bike's steerer tube displayed a "distinct ring of death", a sign of headset erosion that, if left unresolved, can lead to potential fork failure. To address this, the headset was overhauled. The front brake was seized onto the fork and could not be removed, so it was left in place.
The handlebar tape was replaced with high-quality tape, and the bottle cage was held in place by a length of ribbon, an ingenious hack. Riding the refurbished 'Blanche' now, the gear changes feel snappy, and there are fewer creaky noises.
Not servicing a bike regularly, especially one used frequently or under heavy loads, poses significant risks including accelerated wear and tear, safety hazards like sudden brake or cable failure, and increased likelihood of mechanical breakdowns. Conversely, regular maintenance prevents these issues, prolongs the bike’s lifespan, and ensures safer, smoother rides.
Key risks of neglecting regular bike servicing include chain wear and breakage, brake failure, wheel issues, tire problems, and battery degradation (for e-bikes). Benefits of regular maintenance include early detection and prevention of malfunctions and safety hazards, extending the life of key components, maintaining optimal performance, and enhancing rider safety.
For bikes carrying heavy loads frequently, stresses on drivetrain, brakes, wheels, and tires are higher, making regular inspection and timely replacement essential to prevent mechanical failure and ensure safe operation under demanding conditions.
In summary, while skipping bike servicing might save time temporarily, it significantly increases the risk of sudden mechanical failures and accidents, particularly for frequently used or heavily loaded bikes; regular maintenance is crucial for safety, performance, and cost efficiency.
Despite the extensive work done, 'Blanche' remains the same frame rescued from a skip and has traveled thousands of miles. Here's to many more adventures with this trusty steed!
[1] Bicycle Servicing: Why It's Important and What It Involves
[2] The Importance of Regular Bicycle Maintenance
[3] E-Bike Battery Care and Maintenance
- After the intensive service, 'Blanche' has become a reliable sports machine once again, ready for its owner to explore new roads.
- Neglecting regular sports equipment maintenance, such as the one done on 'Blanche', can lead to costly repairs and potential accidents, emphasizing the importance of bike servicing.
