Think of it like taking out the trash, feeding the cat, brushing your teeth: A little routine bike maintenance goes a long way.

Tuneups:

If your bike hasn't been ridden since last summer, it needs a tuneup before it hits the trail or road. Tuneups are recommended every six months, more if you ride a lot. If you can't do it yourself, take your bike to a reliable bike shop.

Before each ride, check:

• Tire pressure

• Tires for cracks, peeling, loose valve covers

• Shock pressure

• Fork pressure

• Brakes

• Loose parts -- if something's rattling, don't ride

• Chain for frozen links

On-road safety:

Although Pittsburgh might be inching towards bike friendliness, it still has a long way to go. Bike Pittsburgh recommends that street cyclists -- whether they're 7 years old or 70 -- keep in mind the following safety tips:

• File in behind traffic at red lights (not to the right)

• Use hand signals

• Make eye contact with motorists

• Be aware of people getting in and out of cars

• Don't pass on the right

• Don't zig-zag through standing traffic

• Don't shoot through intersections

• And, of course, wear a helmet

Off-road rules:

• Check all gear before you ride

• Open trails only -- ask before riding on private property

• Don't leave the trails

• Leave no ruts or litter

• Maintain control, don't ride too fast for conditions

• "Passing on the left!" -- shout a warning before passing

• Yield to passing cyclists

• Leave gates as you found them

• Stop completely at road crossings

• And, of course, wear a helmet

After each ride:

• Check tires, again

• Clean sweat from frame and seat

• Clean sand, dirt, grime from chain, sprockets

• Re-lube the chain and remove excess lube

• Store in a safe place where the bike won't fall and spokes won't be damaged

For more safety tips, road rules, biking danger zones and a lot more of anything you need to know about biking in Pittsburgh, visit www.bike-pgh.org.