An exercise bike works under load just like a road bike, but it also gets a steady shower of sweat. The salts in sweat leave marks and slowly attack the frame finish, screws and console contacts, while loosened joints start to squeak and wobble.
A quick wipe after each workout and a proper service once or twice a year will extend its life. Here is how to do it.
What you will need
Important: Unplug the bike before servicing it. Do not apply lubricant to the flywheel surface where the brake pad runs, to the pedal treads, handlebar grips or saddle, so nothing becomes slippery.
Step 1
Assess the bike's condition
Before and after each session, quickly check for wobbling, squeaks, rubbing or unusual noises. Once a year, and after a long period of disuse, inspect it more thoroughly: bearings, belt or chain, resistance system and fixings.
Step 2
Clean after every workout
Wipe the saddle, handlebars, pulse sensors and console with a damp cloth and a drop of mild detergent, then dry them. Regularly wash the whole frame with a damp sponge, paying attention to where sweat runs down. Vacuum under the bike too so dust is not drawn into the mechanism.
Step 3
Look after the chain or belt
Most exercise bikes have a belt, which needs no lubricant, only checking for cracks and tension. If yours has a chain, remove the cover and inspect it. Apply WD-40 Specialist Silicone along its full length while turning the pedals, then wipe off the excess. Silicone reduces friction and squeaks and does not collect dust.
Step 4
Check the resistance system
On magnetic systems it is usually enough to adjust the cable that moves the magnets, following the manufacturer's manual. On friction systems with a pad, watch the pad wear and replace it roughly once a year of regular use. Keep the flywheel's working surface clean and dry.
Step 5
Tighten screws and level the feet
Vibration gradually loosens fixings. Once or twice a year, check and tighten the screws on the frame, handlebars, pedals and feet. Use the adjustable feet to level the bike so it does not rock on the floor.
Step 6
Lubricate moving parts
Treat the seat height adjuster, seat slider, handlebar adjuster, knobs and pivots with WD-40 Multi-Use or WD-40 Specialist Silicone using the straw. They stop squeaks, protect the metal from corrosion and displace moisture. Wipe off any excess. If the console responds poorly because of oxidised connectors, treat them with WD-40 Specialist Contact Cleaner with the power off and let them dry.
Tip: Put a rubber mat under the bike. It absorbs vibration so fixings loosen more slowly, protects the floor from sweat and makes cleaning easier.
What next
Wipe the bike down after every session and lubricate the moving parts once a year or as soon as a squeak appears. If you have other home gym equipment, see our tips on maintaining a rowing machine and dumbbells.
These uses come from the experience of WD-40 users in many countries. Always follow the instructions and warnings on the product label.
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