Nothing can hamper your motivation to crush a ride, quite like clicking into your
Tools Needed
When you purchase an indoor cycling
- Hex Key Set
- Pedal Socket
- Spanner Set
- Socket Set
- Phillips Screwdriver
- Silicone Lubricant
Potential Magnetic Resistance Bike Issues
Squeaking Noise
If your indoor cycling
Magnet Issues
Two issues that can occur with magnetic resistance bikes are that the magnets need to be replaced or repositioned. This is because magnets play a pivotal role in magnetic resistance. They are responsible for increasing or decreasing the workload based on moving closer or farther away from the metal flywheel.
To assess the magnets, you will need to access the flywheel.
- Step 1: Remove the pedals
- Step 2: Remove the flywheel shield
- Step 3: Begin your assessment of the magnets
A simple way to determine if a magnet needs to be replaced is to test it. Place one of your metal tools close to the magnet. What do you feel? If you can feel the magnetic field, you know that the magnet is functioning fine. However, the magnet probably needs to be replaced if you do not feel anything.
Magnets can also move from their original positioning, which affects their ability to adjust the resistance appropriately. You can tighten them back into position along with any other nuts and bolts while you have the flywheel shield off.
Belt Slipping
Over time the belt will need replacing as it will eventually stretch out and begin to slip. Replacing a belt can be tricky, so it is essential always to reference your
You will need to remove the pedal crank before accessing the belt guard to access the belt. After the belt guard has been removed, the belt tension bolt will need to be removed so that the strap can be detached. The flywheel will also need to be removed to slip the belt off of the
However, if you decide that you would like help from the experts, you can always call a technician to help make the change.
Clicking Noise
A clicking noise or feeling often is caused by loose screws or bolts located on the pedals or crank arms. The noise or clicking feeling should go away after everything is tightened.
The Importance of Regular Maintenance
Many
Daily Tasks
- Clean your
bike after every ride - Reduce resistance back to zero
Weekly Tasks
- Tighten bolts and screws
- Tighten crank arms and pedals
Monthly Tasks
- Apply lubricant to any squeaking components
- Lubricate moveable components such as handlebar and seat posts
Visit our How to Maintain Your Indoor Cycle: A Practical, Step-by-Step Guide article for more maintenance suggestions.
FAQ
Are Magnetic Spin Bikes Better?
It all depends on what type of ride you want and your price point. Bikes that include a friction resistance system feel closer to riding a
They are also a little louder than a magnetic
Are Magnetic Bikes Quiet?
Yes, magnetic bikes are quiet because the magnets do not contact the flywheel making the ride almost silent.
Is a Heavier Flywheel Better on a Spin Bike ?
A heavier flywheel allows for a smoother ride as the inertia created by the turning flywheel keeps an even pedal stroke. Therefore, strive for a flywheel with a weight close to forty pounds. You can find more info about the flywheel weight in our detailed guide.
The Bottom Line
We recommend that you always look at your