When it comes to Winter, it’s safe to say most of us probably fall into one of two camps. The die hard wrap up and hit the trails kind, and those of us whose bike rests in hibernation covered beneath a season’s dust and cobwebs.
As with any physical activity there’s bound to be ups and downs, sometimes with our motivation lurking or absent. So for those days when gardening, the couch and a good book aren’t enough, call a friend and make plans for a ride together. Who knows you might find Mo and Jo lurking on a muddy corner.
Spring is time for rejuvenation and new beginnings. It’s time to step outside and soak up the extra sunshine, warmer temperatures, and longer days. On the back of winter it’s the ideal time to focus on mind and body health and wellness. A bike ride is a great energy and mood boost, can relieves stress, and will even help you get some extra Zzzz’s.
It’s time to leave procrastination behind and get active. Follow through with your plans, top up your vitamin D, get fit, feel proud and find freedom in the new season. Whilst most of us enjoy a solo ride, biking with others comes with a handful of benefits. It’s a great way to take that first leap and get on your bike. After all, no-one likes letting their friends down.
So, if Spring’s warmer days and lighter evenings have you fired up and heading out for your first ride, spend a little time getting your bike fit for the trails. These basic bike maintenance tips will help ensure a safe and efficient ride all season.
7 Tips for a Springtime Tune Up
1 Clean your bike
A clean bike not only looks loved, it extends the life of its components.
2 Inspect your brakes
Check the brake pads which wear down over time, and replace them if they show excessive wear.
3 Watch your wheels
Clean the wheels with alcohol using a clean dry cloth. Inspect the rims for nicks, scrapes, and dents.
4 Inspect the drivetrain
Inspect the chain, chainrings, derailleur and cassette for wear, missing teeth, dents, scrapes etc.
5 Check the tyres
Check tyres for splits, cracks or tears, especially along the sides, and check the tread for uneven or excessive wear.
6 Check the cables
Inspect the cable and surrounding rubber housing for cracks, crimps, rust, dirt and looseness.
7 Add lubricant
Apply lubricant evenly to the chain while slowly rotating the pedals in an anti-clockwise direction.
Don't know your derailleur from your fork crown? We've got you covered with this handy anatomy in case you’re not sure which bits are which! If you would like support or advice with your bike, there are a number of service providers located across the Hauraki Rail Trail.
JollyBikes Thames
JollyBikes have qualified mechanics with a special expertise in Electric bikes and MTBs. Their mechanics are Certified Shimano Technicians, Certified Sram Technicians and the workshop is Bosch certified. Call in to see the team for quality consultations, basic care, services or technical problems. You can find more information here.
The Cycle Fixery
The Cycle Fixery is a bicycle repair and workshop, servicing the Waihou/Te Aroha towns and surrounding areas. From Puncture repairs to servicing, and full bike assembly, there is no job too big or small. You can find more information here.
Bob's Bikes Matamata
Whether you are looking for MTBs, road bikes, electric bikes, gravel or cyclecross bikes, city, urban or trekking bikes, Bob's Bikes pretty much covers everything you can dream of. They also offer bike servicing and repairs, from a basic to a full service, with booking essential. Bob's Bikes carries a range of 1st class replacement parts, but can undertake repairs to get you back on the Trail as quickly as possible. You can find more information here.
The 197km trail is Grade One (Easiest), and suitable for all fitness levels and cycling abilities. Although the Trail can be enjoyed as manageable day rides, why not promise yourself longer rides, and tick off some multi-day adventures.
If you’re passing through, or short for time, check out our half-day and one-day rides. Or if you’ve got time up your sleeve and looking to explore the region, then our 3-Day or 5-Day ride will help you tick off most, if not all of the Trail.
Ensure you Plan, Prepare & Pack the right gear. It can make the difference between a fun day out on the trails and a long walk back to the car. Regardless of the ride length, there are a handful of essentials that should come with you every time you hop on your bike.
If you want to focus on riding with someone else taking care of the logistics, a guided cycle tour might be a good option for you. Supported tours have the advantage of providing planning, support, transport, and local knowledge of the Trail and region.
The Hauraki Rail Trail showcases the best of New Zealand’s landscape, environment, culture and heritage. No matter how fast or far you want to ride, if you’re ready for an adventure there’s a great option for every rider.
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