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Had my bossnut since December last year. Starting to get out more regularly now so need some advice on maintenance i.e what should I be lubing etc. I have zero bike maintenance knowledge so any advice at all would be appreciated. Just don't want to miss some easy maintenance that will come back to haunt me. Also any advice on what products you are using and where
what should I be lubing
The chain. Not the brakes (be careful if you spray lube on the chain, it's very easy to get on the brakes)
+1. Keep the chain and cassette clean and lube the chain (inside of links not outside) and your drivetrain will last much longer. Old toothbrush is good for cassette, likewise a washing up brush held against the cassette teeth while running the cranks backwards.
Mild soapy water, no special cleaning products needed. No jetwashes if possible. Yes, many trail centres have them but they aren’t a good idea - high pressure water tends to flush out grease from places it needs to be. Gentle hose is better. If you let the mud dry, most of it will actually brush off although how practical this is depends where your bike needs to live. Storing a dirty bike is about the worst thing you can do, although if it’s ridden several times a week bikes survive without thorough cleaning very well in practice. It’s sitting dirty for long periods that causes the real trouble.
Yes, oil the chain. Actually, I disagree with previous post. As long as the chain and mech are lubed dirt doesn't hurt. In fact washing can force lube out and grit in.
Then check disc pads visually for wear. Replace if there's less than 1mm of pad material. Apply front brake and rock back and forth. Is there any play anywhere? Brake bolts, Headset, Fork Stanchions? If so, tighten up. Then lift front wheel and turn the bars. Any stiffness? You've overtightened the headset.
Turn bike upside down and check all the gears can be engaged cleanly. Also, if the mech jumps a bit check for a stiff link. Then turn back (you might have to pump the brake levers a bit and push down on the fork as being upside down can affect the brakes and damping temporarily) Grab the wheels and push and pull from side to side to check if there's play in the bearings.
That's about it.