Bike maintenance 101

As the weather gets warmer, it's the perfect time to learn how to take care of your bike just in time for summer riding. 22 News State House reporter Olivia Ray is taking a break from state government to show you how to stay safe on the road. It's National Bike Week, and there's no better time to learn some basic bike maintenance to keep yourself safe on the road. Whether you ride a bike from your neighbor's yard sale or a top-of-the-line racing bike, basic care for your bike remains the same. Before every ride, you'll want to check your ABCs. That stands for air, brakes, and chain. It's easiest to check these essential functions of your bike with the wheels up. First, you'll want to make sure your tires are inflated, and you can find the PSI you should be aiming for on the side of your tire. It doesn't matter what type of brakes your bike uses. What matters most is that they work. Check that out before you ride. As for your chain, make sure it isn't sticking and keep it lubricated. You can find chain lube at your local bike shop and keep up with this on your own. Before you hit the road, make sure you're wearing a well- fitted helmet. You only get one brake. On the road, you'll want to ride on the same side of the road as cars do and follow all traffic laws. The best way to prevent an accident is by being predictable. Always signal your turns and keep your wits about you. For extra safety, use lights on your bike. A white light always faces forwards and a red light faces backwards to show other riders and cars that you're up ahead. Use the blinking settings to save battery and catch cars attention. One last thing before you hit the road. Just like you'd never text and drive, put your phone away when you're on your bike. Working for you from the state house in Boston.