Inspired by the Tour de France? Here's how to save money on cycling

The Tour de France gets underway this Saturday (4 July), with 184 riders from 23 teams setting off on a gruelling 2,071-mile journey over 23 days.

Whether you're already a keen cyclist or you're feeling inspired to dust off your bike and head out for a ride, cycling doesn't have to be an expensive hobby.

With a little know-how and some basic maintenance, you can keep your bike in great condition, avoid costly repairs and even save money if you're looking to buy a new set of wheels.

Give your bike a quick clean

You don't need expensive cleaning products to keep your bike in good shape.

A bucket of warm, soapy water and a soft brush are all you need to wash away mud, grit and road salt. Cleaning your bike regularly helps prevent rust and corrosion, keeping parts working properly for longer.

Do the simple ABC check

Before every ride, spend 30 seconds doing the ABC check.

• A – Air: Are your tyres inflated properly?
• B – Brakes: Do they stop the bike quickly and smoothly?
• C – Chain: Is the chain clean and running smoothly, and are the cables working properly?

Spotting a problem before you set off could save you from an expensive repair later.

Keep your chain happy

Your chain is one of the hardest-working parts of your bike.

If it's dry or covered in dirt, you'll waste energy every time you pedal and wear out your drivetrain much faster.

Every two or three rides, wipe away any grime and apply a small amount of bike chain lubricant. It's one of the cheapest jobs you can do, but it can save you replacing a worn chain and cassette sooner than necessary.

Pump up your tyres

Riding on under-inflated tyres makes cycling harder and increases your chances of getting a puncture.

Check your tyre pressure every week with a track pump that has a pressure gauge. Properly inflated tyres roll more efficiently, last longer and can even make your ride more comfortable.

Buy a few cheap tools

You don't need a professional workshop to look after your bike.

A few inexpensive tools can save you plenty of money over time, including:

• tyre levers and puncture repair patches for roadside repairs
• a cycling multitool with Allen keys for quick adjustments
• a chain checker, which tells you when it's time to replace your chain before it damages your more expensive cassette

Looking for a bike? Consider buying second-hand

Buying a used bike can save you hundreds of pounds if you know what to look for.

Good places to shop include:

• local bike shops selling refurbished bikes
• charity bike recycling schemes
• Facebook Marketplace (always meet in a safe public place)
• Gumtree
• eBay (check the seller's feedback before buying)

Buying from a bike shop may cost a little more, but the bike will often have been serviced and may come with a short warranty, giving you extra peace of mind.

Check the bike before you buy

If you're buying second-hand, always take the bike for a test ride if you can.

Make sure:

• it feels comfortable to ride
• the steering is straight
• the brakes work properly
• the gears change smoothly
• there aren't any unusual rattles or noises

If the bike needs new tyres, brake pads, a chain or a service, don't be afraid to negotiate. You can use the cost of those repairs to agree on a fairer price.

Remember the extras

The bike itself isn't the only cost.

You may also need to budget for:

• a helmet
• lights
• a lock
• mudguards or a pannier rack
• repairs or servicing

It's worth keeping around £50 to £150 aside for any unexpected maintenance after you buy.

Or buy new for less

If you'd rather buy a brand-new bike, you don't have to spend a fortune.

Entry-level bikes can often be found for under £100 during retailer sales.

Many cycling retailers also offer discounts throughout the summer, so it's worth shopping around before you buy. You could save money not just on the bike itself, but also on helmets, clothing, locks and other accessories.

Whether you're cycling to work, exploring at the weekend or dreaming of your own Tour de France, a little maintenance and some savvy shopping can keep you riding for less.