Maintenance Bicycles are such simple, sturdy machines that many owners seldom think about maintenance unless some thing breaks. But spending a few minutes before a ride, and a few dollars before the bicycling season begins, will make bicycling safer and more enjoyable. You don't want to be cruising down a steep hill with a stop sign at the bottom and find that your brake cable is broken. Nor is a flat tire ten miles from home any fun. Check brake cables and brake pads for wear and try the brakes as you begin your ride.
Every few weeks check for loose nuts and bolts and loose spokes.
Make sure the chain is clean and lubricated and gears are working properly. If the headset wobbles, the bearings may be worn and you may find your self unable to steer the bike in an emergency. Wheels that are out of true are hard to pedal, will limit braking power and eventually may collapse. Bikes are easy to repair and maintain yourself, or you can turn the job over to a bike mechanic. However, the mechanic won't be with you all the time, so you should buy a basic bike tool kit and learn to do simple repairs such as changing a tire.