As Halloween approaches, the last thing you want is a terrifying breakdown on your trusty trike. Before your wheels become a "horror" of creaks and rust, check out these essential trike maintenance tips to keep your ride running like a dream rather than a nightmare. Here’s how to protect your trike from all things that go bump in the night!

Slay the Rust Monster

Nooooo Mr. Ghostface! Please don't make my trike rusty, I want to ride all season long! Rust can turn your shiny trike into a scary rusty relic! Start by checking for rusty spots on the chain, bolts, and frame.

To protect your trike from the creeping crawl of rust you'll want to perform a preventive spell! First step of the spell is to clean metal parts with a dry cloth, then apply a light coat of lubricant or rust protectant to create a shield against moisture. The last thing you want is your trike haunted by the creeping red of rust!

Beware of the Screeching Brakes!

Nothing screams horror quite like squeaky brakes that fail at the worst moment. Inspect your brake pads and cables for signs of wear.

Brakes & Broomsticks: Wipe down brake pads and tighten any loose screws. If they’re worn down to a ghoulishly thin layer, it’s time to replace them. Don’t be caught in a fright when you need to stop fast! If you need help learning to replace your brakes check out our video coming out tomorrow November 1st on how to maintenance on your brakes!

Chain of Chills: Oil it Up

The chain is the beating heart of your trike’s drive system. If it’s dry or rusty, you might find yourself in a real nightmare.

Trick-or-Treat for Chains: Clean the chain with a cloth, removing any spooky cobwebs, mysterious dirt or grime! Then apply bike-specific lubricant and wipe away any excess to avoid attracting dirt. This keeps your ride smooth and quiet, so you can sneak up on any Halloween haunts!

Check for Loose Screws and Nuts – Before It Falls Apart!

Over time, nuts and bolts may start to wiggle loose, causing spooky sounds and unsafe rides. Be sure to inspect all screws and nuts so you can avoid a monster mash!

Tighten the Skeleton: Use a wrench to go over all the sneaky bolts, especially on the handlebars, wheels, and seat. A loose bolt today could lead to a grave situation tomorrow!

Deflate the Fear with Proper Tire Pressure

Riding on under-inflated tires can feel as sluggish as a zombie on a midnight stroll. Too much pressure, and you risk a blowout! That's why it's important to ride with pumpkin perfect pressure!

Pumpkin-Perfect Pressure: Check your tires for the recommended PSI and keep them inflated to the right level. Often times the you can find the PSI written on the sidewall of the tire. Inspect for any spooky cracks, thorns, or glass shards embedded in the tread.

If you fins that your tire is cracked or has other damage you may want to replace it. If you need any help replacing your tire check out this goulishly good video about how to properly replace your tire!

Handlebars from the Underworld? Not Here!

Your handlebars should be sturdy and responsive to avoid any “evil twists” mid-ride. Good handlebars are a core part of any ride.

Exorcise the Wiggle: Tighten all bolts and adjust the grips to make sure they’re securely in place. If they’re slipping or loose, add new grips or secure with grip tape.

Lighting the Way – No Ghosts or Goblins Here!

As days get shorter and darker, make sure your lights are in working order for safe twilight rides.

A Beacon Against the Dark: Replace old batteries and clean the lenses for maximum brightness. Reflective stickers on the frame or pedals add an extra layer of visibility, making sure you’re seen by everyone – ghosts and ghouls included. If you don't have a light or are look for a new one we recommend checking our CatEye AMPP1100 Headlight

The CatEye AMPP1100 Headlight is a scarily good light! It features twin LED design providing maximum output (1100 lumens) for 1.5hrs. It also features up to 50 hours of runtime on the flashing setting, so you'll be sure to see any ghosts or gouls that get in your way!

Get Out And Ride Like Your Life Depends On It!

IT"S ALIIIVVVEE!! Thanks for reading our Halloween article! We hope you enjoyed these spooky trike maintenance tips! Now you’ll be riding with confidence, knowing your trike is more treat than trick! Follow this guide, and your trike will be ready to roll through Halloween and beyond, free from rust, squeaks, and ghostly rattles.