Nice bike Gary. And you are right about getting out and getting in a good ride. It definitely a good thing. I was just bringing in one of mine for a freshen up to do the midwinter duties.
bmwrd0,
You bring up a good point-- annual maintenance is important and sometimes critical. I'm curious what your consist of.
Here's my annual ritual:
1) Wash entire bike with soap and water, blow dry with compressed air, then finish wiping down with a shop towel. While doing this step, inspect the entire bike carefully for cracks, dents, bends, lever and cable operation, loose fasteners, and anything out of adjustment. Correct any issues.
2) Lube the chain, gears sets, derailers, and pedals. I generally don't lube the cables. They typically stay dry, clean, and operate very smoothly. If they don't, it's time to replace them. For chains, gears, and derailers, I like to clean them with a tooth brush and "Finish Line Multi Degreaser", then wiped down with a paper towel. To relube, I use White Lighting Clean Ride" lube. Just put it on judiciously and let air dry. Your good to go for another year and your gears and chain will always look clean and rust free. Additionally your chain and gears will operate quietly and feel silky smooth. Good stuff.
3) Clean the brake pads and brake surface of the rims. Adjust the brakes if necessary. To clean the brake pads, I remove them and dress the friction surface with 220 sandpaper. This takes very little effort and removes all the glazed over rubber. As soon as I hit fresh soft rubber, I quit sanding. Just be sure to maintain the original angle on the pads. The wheel brake surface, especially with aluminum wheels, gets glazed just like the rubber pads. I usually use brake cleaner and a 3M scuff pad, then wipe with a paper towel. Cleaning the pads and the wheel friction surfaces usually gets the brakes working very effectively, with minimal lever pressure, and no noise or grabbing.
4) Inspect the tires carefully. Look for cracks in the side walls. If heavily cracked, it's time for new tires. Look for cracks, tears, punctures, cuts, or exposed casing, anywhere on the rolling surface. If these are found, it's time for new tires. Also, in my case, inspect the cleats on the upper sidewalls. If they are heavily worn, or some are missing, it's time for new tires. Last but not least, check your tire pressure. I usually do this every time I take the bike for a spin. If riding on pavement, I generally run 30-35psi. If going off-road I generally run 20-25psi depending on trail conditions. That's it, maybe two hours total time, and only one time a year.
For the record, I consider this ritual as quality time in the garage. If only cars, trucks, and motorcycles were this simple.