7 Ways To Save Money with a Bike.

The bike is well known as a cheap and environmentally friendly type of transport. These are some tips to get even better value for money from your bike. These tips may not  necessarily apply to the keenest cyclists (like me) who think nothing of paying £500 for just a back wheel. But, for most people these are some simple tips to get even better value for money from your bike.

1. Puncture Proof Tyres.

These armadillos are not completely puncture proof, but, they are very robust and I have experienced a dramatic fall in the number of punctures on my commuting bike since I have started using them. They are heavier and a bit slower than the average tyre. But, for most people the slight fall in speed is well worth the improved puncture protection. Not only does it save the cost of buying new inner tubes, but also the inconvenience of having to mend a puncture.

2. Look After Bike.

If well maintained, a bike can provide years of service. To keep the bike in good working order, it only requires basic looking after. Where possible protect from rain; if necessary build a suitable outdoor shelter. If the bike has been exposed to rain, give it a good spray with a water repelling spray such as WD-40. This will help prevent the bike rusting.

3. Don’t Lose It.

The biggest cost associated with cycling is the cost of having to buy a new bike because your existing one gets stolen. Don’t be one of the depressing statistics; take the necessary precaution to lock in a secure way. Avoid leaving in a hidden place where it could be lifted up and put in the back of a van. Buy a good lock; it is recommended to spend up to 10% of the bikes cost on a lock.

4. LED Lights

For some reason cyclists are reluctant to use lights, even when dark. However, if you use the new LED lights, the batteries will last for hours before needing replacing. If you commute a lot in the dark, buy rechargeable batteries. But, light is not and area to make some false savings.

5. Don’t worry Expensive Extras
The truth is that reducing the weight of a bike, doesn’t make a huge difference to the speed of a bike. If you are racing, then these small gains are worthwhile to make, but for an average commuter, don’t feel obliged to spend hundreds of pounds on the latest carbon fibre components; you only make your bike more attractive to thieves.

6. Panniers. - Shopping.

Using your bike is much cheaper than driving or getting the bus to work. If you add panniers to the back of your bike, you will increase its usefulness and range of situations where you can use the bike. I use my bike for getting the weekly shopping, and only occassionally drive to the supermarket to get really heavy bulky items.

7. Basic Maintenance

If you spend a little time learning about bike maintenance, with a few tools you can save yourself a lot of money.

• With allen keys, you will be able to adjust brakes and gears.
• Tyre leavers and a pump is all that is necessary to replace a flat tyre. (and spanner on non quick release tyres)
• Chain tool and cassette lock. Another useful job to be able to do is replace a cassette and chain. If you get the right tool, it is relatively straight forward to change chain and cassette block.

Being able to do simple tasks such as this will save money. Firstly because you don’t have to pay a bike mechanic and secondly, you will be able to buy cheapest components mail order. For more difficult tasks such as changing bottom bracket, it is best to use a shop as you will not use the tools very often. But, some basic tools can do about 75% of maintenance tasks