Bike care

Bicycle care - choose correctly in the Sportano shopThe bicycle is a machine which is exposed to many external factors during its operation: dust, mud, water or salt from the road surface in winter. Regular care of your bicycle not only prolongs its life, but also ensures safety and riding comfort. Taking care of proper lubrication, cleaning and maintenance of the components is essential for optimal operation of the entire bicycle system. In the Sportano shop you will find bicycle care products from professional brands such as Morgan Blue, Muc-Off, Peaty's or Finish Line.Hydraulic fluid: importance and replacement in systems braking systemsHydraulic braking systems on bicycles, although more advanced than traditional cable-based systems, offer much better braking power and precision performance. At the heart of these systems is a hydraulic fluid that transfers power from the brake lever to the pistons in the caliper, enabling effective braking. However, in order for this system to work efficiently, it is necessary to regularly replace and check the hydraulic fluid. Hydraulic fluid tends to absorb moisture from the air, which can lead to a lowering of its boiling point and the formation of air bubbles in the system. The presence of air in the hydraulic system is undesirable as air is elastic, which can lead to 'passing' of the brakes. Furthermore, moisture in the fluid can cause corrosion of the internal parts of the brake system. Therefore, it is important to check the condition of the hydraulic fluid regularly and to replace it, usually every one or two years depending on the intensity of use of the bike. The process of changing the hydraulic fluid requires some knowledge and skill, but this ensures that the braking system operates efficiently and safely.Disc degreaser: how to look after your brakes to keep them working flawlessly?Disc brakes have become standard on many types of bike, from mountain bikes to road bikes. While they are extremely effective and offer excellent stopping power, they also require proper care to function optimally. One of the key aspects of keeping disc brakes in good condition is keeping the discs clean, and this is where disc degreaser comes onto the scene. Brake discs can be contaminated by a variety of substances, such as oil, grease or even particles from the road. When the discs are dirty, the brakes may not work as effectively as they should, which in turn can lead to longer stopping distances and noise when braking. In extreme cases, dirty discs can even cause the brakes to stop working. Disc degreaser is a specialised product that is designed to effectively remove contaminants from brake discs. Using degreaser after every ride in muddy conditions or after working on your bike's drivetrain ensures that your brakes will perform optimally. However, it is important to rinse the discs thoroughly with clean water after using the degreaser to remove any product residue.Chain cleaner: prolonged service life and optimum drive performanceThe bicycle chain is one of the most important components of the bicycle. Its condition has a direct impact on the quality of the ride and the performance of the transmission. Unfortunately, it gets dirty easily, collecting sand, mud and residues of oil or grease. And a dirty chain can lead to accelerated wear and tear on other parts of the drive train, such as the cranks, discs or cassette. Therefore, regular care and cleaning of the chain is key to maintaining its efficiency and maximising its service life. Special chain cleaners are available on the market that not only effectively remove dirt, but also protect the chain from corrosion and adverse weather conditions. Using the right chain cleaner ensures that the chain is cleaned of all dirt, while maintaining its functionality and flexibility. It is worth noting that after each cleaning, the chain should be properly lubricated to ensure that it runs smoothly and is protected from further contamination.Bike cleaning fluid: how to clean your bike effectively and safely? safely wash your unicycle?After every ride, especially in difficult weather conditions or on muddy trails, your bike needs proper care. It is not just about aesthetics, but above all about maintaining the proper functionality of all its components. The bike cleaning liquids available on the market have been specially formulated to remove hard-to-remove dirt, such as mud, sand or grease residues. The main advantage of specialised bike cleaning fluids is their formulation, which effectively removes dirt but is also gentle on the surface of the bike. Unlike many household cleaners, such as soap or dishwashing liquid, professional bike cleaning liquids do not contain ingredients that can damage the bike's paint finish or rubber and plastic parts. When washing your bike, it is important to follow the fluid manufacturer's recommendations and to avoid the fluid coming into contact with areas where it should not, such as the braking system or drivetrain. After washing your bike thoroughly, it is also a good idea to lubricate all moving parts to ensure that they are adequately protected and perform well on subsequent rides.