Taking 30-45 minutes once every week or two (depending on how much mileage your ride during a week), to clean your bicycle will add years to the life of your bicycle.
Because triathletes spend so much time in the aero position, sweat can and will drip on these components and seep down into the handlebar stem as well. Sometimes handlebar stems freeze in place due to rust because of the sweat factor.
There are basic tools and supplies needed for your weekly and monthly tune-up which are: the Chain Cleaner, which is probably the most expensive and will cost around $25. But the initial investment will pay for itself within the first month or two.
Furthermore, the supplies will last a long time Chain Cleaners can last up to 8 years and still work fine. The Tri-flow and bike grease will also last you years. The remaining supplies can be found in any hardware/grocery/automotive store or around the home!
Also, get a Chain Cleaner; this is a park chain cleaner and can be found in most cycling catalogs. There are other excellent models on the market as well. It will be the most expensive supply in which you will have to invest but it is well worth the money for it will provide years of service.
Get a good degreaser. There are several excellent degreasers on the market. Degreasers can be found at auto parts shops as well as bike shops/catalogs. Get one that is biodegradable.
Waterproof Grease- Get good waterproof grease; Phil Woods is highly recommended. There are others on the market.
Next is a 5mm Hex Wrench which should fit the bolts we will be referring to in this maintenance plan.
Next would be a Teflon Spray which can be found at most bike shops and is highly necessary.
