Since spring has arrived, it will soon be time to pull out your bicycle. Before you hit the streets or the trails, however, Jim's Bike & Key Shop in Columbia, MO, has some essential tips for spring cycling. The information below should help you get the bike in shape after it's been stored all winter and help you prepare for your first outings.

5 Tips for Riding Your Bike This Spring

1. Give It a Good Scrubbing

Since the bike has presumably been sitting unused since last summer or fall, it's probably accumulated a lot of dust, dirt, and even cobwebs. Before hopping aboard, rinse it down with a hose and wash it with a gentle detergent. Once it's clean, dry it with a clean cloth or chamois to prevent exposed metal from rusting.

2. Oil the Chain

Add a few drops of bicycle oil to the chain to keep it lubricated. Prop up the back wheel and crank the pedals with your hand, so you can inspect the derailleurs. The chain shouldn't squeak, and it should shift smoothly between gears. Look for dents, scrapes, or missing gear teeth.

3. Inspect the Brakes

The brakes are the single most important safety feature, so you should always inspect them before putting the bike back in service. Do the calipers close completely? Do the rubber brake pads make firm contact with the rim of the tire? Are the pads in good shape? They should have plenty of wear left and not show cracks or deterioration.

4. Inflate & Check the Tires

Inflate your tires to the correct pressure—see the note on the tire's sidewall for its recommended PSI. The safest course is to use a bicycle pump, and if you use one meant for automobiles, you risk over-inflating and bursting the tires. Inspect the tread for proper depth and look for cracks in the sidewall.

5. Wear a Helmet

Always wear a helmet when you ride your bike. Hundreds of cyclists are killed each year in biking accidents, and many of these deaths could have been prevented if the rider wore head protection.

If your spring inspection reveals that the brakes, tires, or derailleurs of your bike need attention, contact Jim's Bike & Key Shop, the premier locksmith and bike repair facility in Columbia, MO. They have 35 years of experience in bike assembly and maintenance and offer reliable work with a friendly smile. Visit the website to view directions and store hours, or call (573) 442-7011 to schedule an appointment.