Belt-drive bikes are a very attractive option for daily bike riding: they run quietly and the belts and cogs are durable. Most importantly, belts don't need cleaning and lubrication, they don't attract black crud from the street, and they’re lighter than chains. Plus, they’re cool!

If your bike chain is showing rust or squeaks while you ride, it's definitely time to lube your chain. The good news is it's an easy bike maintenance job, but how often should one do it? Well... it depends!

Whether you're dusting off your bike after a hiatus or you've been riding hard throughout the winter, it's a good idea to bring it to your local bike shop for a spring tune-up (the experts at Recycle-A-Bicycle in Clinton Hill will be happy to help you out!). Think of these visits as preventative maintenance, just like your annual health check-ups! Regular tune-ups once or twice a year can help your bike and its components last longer and catch minor issues before they become more significant problems.