IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT BICYCLE ASSEMBLY & MAINTENANCE 

What should I do before my first ride?

  • Check that the handlebars, wheels, pedals and saddle are secure.
  • If you have not already done so, adjust the handlebar and saddle height to suit.
  • Check that you know how the gears and brakes operate.
  • Check that your tyres are inflated correctly.  Use a pressure gauge to check tyre pressures (the recommended pressure is written on the sidewall of the tyre.

What should I do before every ride?

  • Check tyre pressure and condition of carcass (bulges, splits etc.
  • Check gear adjustment and brake operation.
  • Steering security – check that the handlebar stem bolts are tight by holding the front wheel between your feet and attempting to turn the handlebars.
  • Check wheel security, particularly the front wheel.  Lift the front of bike and strike the top of the wheel smartly with your hand to check security.
  • Problems with the cycle observed during the safety check, or whilst riding, should be rectified immediately.  Failure to do so may cause further damage and possible injury.

Does my Velorbis bicycle need periodic care & maintenance?

Whilst your Velorbis Classic Bicycle is designed to reduce servicing requirements to a minimum, regular maintenance and simple care are essential to keep your bicycle running smoothly.

Cleaning:

A clean bicycle not only looks smart, it also tends to be more reliable as any maintenance issues are much easier to spot.  Clean your bicycle using a car shampoo (do not use domestic washing-up liquids as they contain salts) and a soft brush or sponge.  Take care to keep the leather saddle and/or leather handlebar grips dry.  Don’t forget to clean the wheels and tyres – not only will you spot any glass or grit embedded in the tyre, and should a puncture occur, repairing a clean wheel is less of a chore than a grimy one.   If you live by the coast, or ride on salted roads in winter, you must clean your bicycle frequently to prevent corrosion.

Lubrication:

Very few parts of your Velorbis Classic Bicycle require lubrication. If your bicycle has an exposed chain, a lubricant chain spray, regularly applied (especially after wet weather) will work well.  Oil is fine but will attract dirt. If cables are stiff to operate, lubricate with WD40 or similar. Hubs, pedals and bottom bracket units are sealed for life.   Rear hubs (3 and 7 speed) may benefit from grease replacement (see your local cycle work shop) every five to ten years.

Component life:

There are too many variables involved to accurately predict average component life.  The best way to stay safe is to regularly maintain your bicycle (or have it serviced professionally) and to listen to your bike as you ride – any creak or squeak should be traced as soon as possible and fixed.  If you ride many kilometres you will naturally become more in tune with your bicycle and will be able to identify any unusual noises as soon as they occur.  Heavy users will wear out chains, sprockets, bearings etc. at a greater rate than average.  No bicycle components last forever – listen to your bike and replace before they wear out completely.  If in doubt, get an expert opinion from your local bicycle work shop.

Consequential wear & tear:

It is important to look after your bicycle and have any required repairs done as soon as possible.  What may start off as a minor clicking noise may lead to a broken spoke, which in turn may lead to further broken spokes and a collapsed wheel – possibly causing accident and injury.  A worn chain will lead to premature wear on both sprockets and chainrings.  Running tyres at low pressures will lead to sidewall failures.  A loose crank will quickly damage its taper and will need to be replaced.  Timely attention will save you trouble and expense, as well as keeping your bicycle safe to ride.