Drivetrain

Keeping your drivetrain tuned and clean will help it run smoothly for a long period of time, making shifting, and riding, easier and more enjoyable. At least once a month check the bicycle chain for signs of wear, including: stretched links, tight links, loose links, rusty spots, bent, broken or misshapen link plates. The two main areas for drivetrain maintenance are cleaning and lubrication, and derailleur adjustment.

Drivetrain Cleaning and Lubrication:

If your chain is in good physical condition, a good cleaning may be in order. Use a dry cloth to remove any light coating of dirt or grime that may be on the chain. Another tool at your disposal for cleaning chains and chainwheels is an old toothbrush.

Front chainrings and rear cassettes also work best when free and clear of debris. Use the same methods above to clean these chain cogs. Once the parts of your drive train are clean and dry, apply a light coating of bicycle lubricant to the inside of the chain. Make sure you get a drop or two on each link.

Shift your chain through the full range of gears to get some of the lube on the teeth of your chain rings and freewheel cogs. After a few minutes, wipe the excess lube away from the bottom and sides of your chain.

Derailleur Adjustment

A poorly adjusted derailleur can be the difference between a great ride and throwing your bike into the bush with frustration. Having gears that are crisp and reliable will make you ride better, be more efficient and wear out fewer parts. There are two derailleurs on most bicycles, front and rear, which have different mechanisms for adjustment.

Rear Derailleur

This video explains how to adjust a rear deraileur:

 

Front Derailleur

This video explains how to adjust a front deraileur: