Dr. Bicycle Blog Post

February 2025

Spring Tune-Up Tips from Dr. Bicycle-Get Ready to Ride!

Spring is just around the corner, and that means it's time to get your bicycle ready for the season! After a long winter, your bike might need some TLC before hitting the road or trails. Here are a few simple but essential steps to ensure a smooth and safe ride this year, brought to you by Ralph Zavadil, Owner/Operator of Dr. Bicycle – Niagara’s mobile bike repair service.

Step 1: Clean Your Ride

Winter storage can leave your bike covered in dust and cobwebs. A Swiffer works well for a quick dust-off, but for stubborn dirt, mix a few drops of dish soap in water and use two microfibre towels—one to dampen and clean, and the other to dry. A clean bike not only looks great but also runs better.

Step 2: Check and Pump Up Your Tires

Tires lose air over time, so check the pressure before your first ride. If they’re completely flat, turn your bike upside down, add a few pumps of air, and make sure the tire bead is properly seated in the rim as you slowly spin the wheel. Then, inflate to the recommended pressure (found on the tire sidewall). To make future checks easier, mark the recommended pressure on the rim near the valve stem using a china marker or Sharpie.

Step 3: Lubricate Your Chain

If you didn’t oil your chain before storing your bike for the winter—now’s the time! Use a dedicated bike chain lube (or "3-in-1" oil in a pinch). Place a paper leaf bag under your bike to catch any drips. Pedal backward while applying oil to the chain, and don’t forget to lubricate the small gears on the rear derailleur and any exposed cables. For best performance, repeat this process mid-season and before winter storage.

Need Professional Help? Dr. Bicycle Makes House Calls!

If you don’t have the time, space, or tools to get your bike road-ready, Dr. Bicycle has you covered! Instead of hauling your bike to a shop, let the repair expert come to you. Ralph offers full tune-ups, brake and gear adjustments, and much more—all at your home.

🚴 A Complete Tune-Up Includes:

  • Adjust front and rear derailleurs

  • Adjust front and rear brakes

  • True (straighten) front and rear rims

  • Lubricate chain and exposed cables

  • Adjust tire pressure

  • Align handlebars

  • Adjust bearings

💰 All for just $50 (Cash or E-Transfer) 🔧

🚦No transportation charge if you are within 2 km of the QEW between St. Catharines and Mississauga.

Ready to ride? Book your tune-up/repair today by calling/texting Ralph Zavadil

@ 905-466-2953

Stay safe, wear a helmet and as Queen says-

“GET ON YER BIKE AND RIDE!”