An overview of 3 essential types of lubrication, complete with brand recommendations.

No matter how often you ride you should give your bike a tune-up at least once a year.

Overhaul your headset at least once a year to check for wear and re-grease the ball bearings.

Frequent chain cleaning and lubrication will help keep dirt off your chain and prevent wear.

Overhaul a hub, replace and grease the wheel bearings, and adjust the cones.

Cable lubrication is recommended, especially if you ride in the rain or have old cable housings.

Using WD-40 as a chain lube can actually damage your chain.