This article is intended to help you identify the most important wear parts on your bike and give you tips on how to extend the life of your beloved bike. We also take a look at the special challenges and wear parts of e-bikes.

tires and tubes

Why do they wear out?

Tires and tubes are the parts that have direct contact with the ground and are therefore subject to the most wear and tear. Depending on driving style, terrain and weather conditions, they can wear out faster or slower. Sharp objects on the road, curbs and extreme weather conditions accelerate wear.

How do you notice the wear and tear?

• Worn profile: When the profile has flattened or disappeared.
• Cracks and cuts: Visible cracks or cuts in the tire surface.
• Flat tires: Frequent flat tires are a sign of worn-out tubes.

There is no universal rule, but experts recommend changing tires every 2,000 to 4,000 kilometers. Check the tread and sidewalls regularly for cracks or wear. A flat tire or frequent flats are a sure sign that a change is necessary.

Step-by-step instructions for changing tires

1. Removing the wheel: Loosen the quick release or axle nuts and remove the wheel from the bike.
2. Remove the tire and tube: Let the air out of the tube, push the tire bead off the rim and pull out the tire and tube.
3. Installing a new tube: Pump up the new tube slightly, insert it into the tire and press the tire back onto the rim.
4. Installing the wheel: Put the wheel back into the frame and tighten the quick releases or axle nuts.

brake pads

Why do they wear out?

Brake pads wear out because they are pressed against the rims or discs every time you brake. They wear out faster in wet conditions because the braking process is more intense and more dirt and water gets between the pad and the rim.

How do you notice the wear and tear?

• Reduced braking power: Your brakes no longer work as well as they used to.
• Squeaking brakes: Another braking noise can be a sign of worn pads.
• Visual inspection: On rim brakes, the brake pads are heavily worn or almost gone.

Brake pads should be checked regularly and replaced if necessary. If you notice that your brakes are not gripping as well as they used to or if the braking noise changes, it is time for a change. With rim brakes, you can visually check the wear of the pads. Disc brake pads should be replaced approximately every 1,000 to 3,000 kilometers, depending on driving conditions.

Step-by-step instructions for changing brake pads

1. Remove old brake pads: Loosen the retaining screws or clips and remove the old pads.
2. Installing new brake pads: Insert the new pads and secure them with the retaining screws or clips.
3. Adjusting the brakes: Adjust the brakes so that the pads hit the rim or disc evenly.

Chain

Why does it wear out?

The bicycle chain is a heavily used part because it is constantly moving and has to transmit high forces. Dirt, water and lack of lubrication lead to faster wear. A worn chain can also damage the gears and pinions, so it is important to check and maintain them regularly.

How do you notice the wear and tear?

• Elongation: A chain gauge can be used to measure whether the chain has stretched too much.
• Jumping gears: The chain often jumps over the gears.
• Rust and stiffness: Visible rust or stiff chain links.

A rule of thumb is that the chain should be replaced every 2,000 to 3,000 kilometers. You can check the wear of the chain with a special chain gauge. If the chain has become longer than 0.5% to 0.75%, you should replace it to avoid further damage to the gear system.

Step-by-step instructions for changing the chain

1. Disconnect the chain: Use a chain tool or chain lock to open and remove the old chain.
2. Inserting a new chain: Place the new chain over the chainrings and sprockets.
3. Connect the chain: Use a chain lock or the chain riveter to close the new chain.
4. Lubricate the chain: Apply bicycle chain lubricant to the chain.

sprockets and chainrings

Why do they wear out?

Sprockets and chainrings wear out due to contact with the chain. A worn chain can significantly accelerate the wear of these parts. Dirt and inadequate lubrication also contribute to this.

How do you notice the wear and tear?

• Shark fin teeth: The teeth are pointed and have a shark fin-like shape.
• Slipping chain: The chain often slips over the teeth.
• Poor gear shifting: Difficulty shifting gears.

Sprockets and chainrings usually last longer than the chain, but should also be checked every third or fourth chain change and replaced if necessary. If the teeth look sharp and shark-fin-like, it's time for a change.

Step-by-step instructions for changing sprockets and chainrings

1. Remove the sprocket set: Use a cassette puller and a chain whip to remove the old sprocket set.
2. Installing the new sprocket set: Place the new sprocket set on the bike and tighten it.
3. Removing chainrings: Loosen the chainring bolts and remove the old rings.
4. Installing new chainrings: Insert the new chainrings and tighten the bolts.

brake and shift cables

Why do they wear out?

Brake and shift cables consist of wire cables that are guided in housings. Frequent use and exposure to the elements can cause the cables to fray or the housing to become damaged. Corrosion can also be a problem, especially in wet or salty conditions.

How do you notice the wear and tear?

• Stiffness: Braking or shifting feels stiff.
• Fraying: Visible wire fibers at the ends of the cables.
• Corrosion: Rust on the trains.

Brake and shift cables should be checked regularly for damage and smooth operation. Changing them every 1,500 to 2,000 kilometers is a good guideline to ensure smooth operation.

Step-by-step instructions for changing brake and shift cables

1. Remove old cables: Disconnect the cables from the levers and the brakes or derailleurs.
2. Threading new cables: Thread the new cables through the housings and attach them to the levers and brakes or derailleurs.
3. Fine-tuning: Adjust the cables so that the brakes and gears work smoothly.

camp

Why do they wear out?

Bearings are located in the hubs, bottom bracket and headset. They are subjected to constant rotational movements and the weight of the rider. Dirt and water can penetrate the bearings and accelerate wear.

How do you notice the wear and tear?

• Cracking noises: Noises while driving.
• Rough ride: A choppy or rough feeling when turning the pedals or handlebars.
• Play: Noticeable play in the camps.

Bearings are more durable than many other parts, but should be checked regularly. Cracking noises or a rough running feel are signs that the bearings need to be replaced or re-lubricated. Changing them every 5,000 to 10,000 kilometers is often sufficient.

Step-by-step instructions for changing bearings

1. Remove the wheel or crank: Remove the wheel or crank to access the bearings.
2. Remove old bearings: Use appropriate tools to remove the old bearings.
3. Installing new bearings: Install the new bearings and make sure to lubricate them properly.
4. Reinstall the wheel or crank: Reinstall the wheel or crank and tighten all screws.

E-bike-specific wear parts

battery

The battery is the heart of an e-bike and is subject to natural wear and tear. The lifespan of a battery depends on the number of charging cycles and care.

How do you notice the wear and tear?

• Shorter range: The battery no longer lasts as long as it used to.
• Longer charging times: The battery takes longer to fully charge.
• Failure: The battery no longer works properly or can no longer be charged.

Step-by-step instructions for changing the battery

1. Remove old battery: Turn off the e-bike, remove the fuse and take out the old battery.
2. Installing a new battery: Insert the new battery and secure it.
3. Charge the new battery: Fully charge the new battery before you set off.

engine and electronics

The motor and electronic control of an e-bike are also wearing parts, even though they often last longer than mechanical components.

How do you notice the wear and tear?

• Loss of power: The engine delivers less power than before.
• Error messages: Indicators or lights indicate problems.
• Noises: Unusual noises while driving.

maintenance and replacement

• Regular inspection: Have your e-bike checked regularly by a specialist dealer.
• Software updates: Make sure the e-bike’s software is up to date.
• Replacement in case of defect: In case of serious problems, the motor and electronics should be replaced by a specialist.

brakes

E-bikes are usually heavier and faster than conventional bicycles, which leads to greater wear and tear on the brakes.

How often should you change them?

E-bike brakes should be checked and maintained even more frequently than normal bikes. The brake pads should be checked every 1,000 to 1,500 kilometers and replaced if necessary.

Conclusion

Knowing what parts of your bike are subject to wear and tear and how to maintain them regularly can significantly extend the life of your bike and ensure your safety. Stick to the maintenance intervals and pay attention to signs of wear. With e-bikes, regular checks of the electrical components are also essential. This way you can ensure that you always have a reliable and comfortable ride.

Stay up to date with the latest maintenance tips and studies on bicycle wear parts to keep your bike in optimal condition. Happy cycling!