Keeping your bike parts perfectly lubricated is extremely important for a good performance of your bike (bike parts). Lubrication protects the moving parts from too much wear caused by friction, keeps them from ‘freezing up’, and it also keeps rust and corrosion from attacking exposed metal components.

When it comes to lubricant options, you can opt for bicycle greases, or bicycle oils. Bicycle greases should be used primarily for lubricating bearing systems and large-thread bolts – they are thicker than oils. On the other hand bicycle oils should be used to lubricate thin-thread bolts, chains and more actively moving parts in the brake and derailleur systems as bike oils are usually thinner than bike greases.

When you lubricate your bike, be sure to use lubes that are suited to your weather and riding conditions. Rainy areas require more durable bike oils, while drier areas require lighter oils that won't pick up as much dirt. Also keep in mind that wet conditions typically require lubrications repeatedly.

• The chain - Your chain is your bike's most "at risk" lubricated part. It should be lubed repeatedly in order to slow the rate of chain wear. In general, make sure to lubricate your bike chain whenever it squeaks or appears ‘dry’.
• Brake and derailleur levers - These levers are extremely important for braking and shifting. Apply a drop or two of oil to the lever pivots and the barrel adjusters from time to time to keep them functioning properly.
• Brake and derailleur cables - Check them frequently and re-lubricate every now and then so that they can effectively translate your commands to the component groups.
• Brake and derailleur assemblies -These assemblies are made up of a number of small moving parts; apply lubricant to the pivot points of the assemblies.

Now, let’s talk about how often you should clean your bike.
Well, it very much depends on how often you ride. In other words, if you spend a lot of time riding in wet, muddy conditions, then of course you should clean your bike more often. A regular schedule of frequent, simple cleaning is very important.

Concerning the basic cleaning supplies you need to clean your bike with, it very much depends on the bike parts you're cleaning and their condition.

Here's a short list of basic items that address most cleaning tasks:

• Clean rags - for general cleaning and drying.
• Soap - for frame washing.
• Water - water is a useful cleaning tool.
• Brushes - use a couple of different sizes and shapes to get into hard-to-reach places to remove the grime that rinsing alone can't get.
• Solvents - choose a solvent designed to be easy on the environment.

Most dirty bike parts can easily be cleaned by wiping them carefully with a dry or damp rag from time to time. Other components and part systems will require every so often brushing, buffing and lubrication to keep them in good condition.

Share with us the cleaning methods you use for your bike parts.