Bicylce Maintenance?

[SparksIT]

So, I'm hoping to get out in the next week, but have a few questions.

The bike has been sitting in the basement for the last 3 months, any type of maintenance I should perform? It's 9 months old, and I was only able to put 400 miles it. The Chain and gears are still well greased, and the break pads seem good (well good to me), and it seems to switch gears without issue. So it appears to be road ready, but wasn't sure if the was anything I should do with it before taking it out.

Also looking for accessories for the bike, but needed some recommendations for some lights, both for the front and back, as with my work hours, I have a feeling a lot of my rides will begin a hour or so before sunset. The other recommendation is a under the seat bicycle bag, the only thing with that is I would like it to be able to fit is my wallet, phone (GS3) and a Redbox DVD case. The last being a tough find, has most have the depth, but not the width\height. Those that do, also seem to also be able to accommodate a kitchen sink, so any recommendations on that would be great.

And if it matters, the bike is a Trek FX 7.2

Thanks.

 

[KMc]

If you've put 400 miles on the bike and it was new 9 months ago, I'm going to say that the chain is not well lubed. Problem with most all formulas is, in addition to lubricating, they also collect and trap dirt. So, even though your chain may look appropriately lubricated, it's likely quite dirty. I would invest in a good chain cleaning system and lube from your LBS (local bike shop) and give it a good treatment. The majority of all drivetrain/shifting problems is a poorly maintained chain.

I don't have much input on lighting, but there's a million styles of saddle bags and you just have to kind of look around to find the one right for you. I'm skeptical about fitting a DVD case though. You might find a way to attach that inside the triangle of your frame and get a nice small bag for your other items.

Some good online resources for accessories are:
www.performancebike.com
www.nashbar.com
www.bicyclebuys.com
www.coloradocyclist.com
www.competitivecyclist.com

When you get out riding again, don't forget to log your miles on the page below!

 

[_Rick_]

Check tire pressure, tire profile, look for any problems with the tire, consider swapping bar tape, verify that pedals still click properly, do a full force break check, to see how much give is in the wires, if the pulleys will hold.

Depending on your mileage/usage a degrease/regrease of the chain might be helpful, to get the dirty grease off and a clean grease on. Check for any kind of noise, make sure the wheels still run true, minimize brake-pad to wheel distance, by retensioning.

As for lights, I'm not riding in the dark. Even with lights, the few times I ended ouy after dusk, it was a nightmare every time. Just too dangerous. And that's without traffic.

Depending on your bearing type, you might want to also consider doing a check on your bottom bracket bearing. Sometimes you can remove the bearings, and clean them. That should help with longevity.

As for carry-ons - I put everything I need in my pockets. With a two-pocket design, even CD-sized items should fit.
I currently fit a spare tube with levers, a banana, my wallets, my cell phone, a chap stick and my keys in those pockets. Downside: Not waterproof, so in the rain, it gets wet.

Oh, and finally, a good cleaning (besides the chain) never hurts. Especially the wheels, and especially after any grease work, so there's no oil on the rims.