Do-It-Yourself: Must Do Bike Checks Before Every Ride

We often head out cycling without doing a bike check-up that ensures we are ready to take on the road and the hurdles on the way.

Below are a few tips that will keep you safe and ensure that you avoid a roadside malfunction so you can enjoy your ride-

Tires:-

Before you go out for a ride, it’s always a good idea to check the tire sidewalls for any sign of wear and tear. Also, ensure to keep the tyre pressure at optimum (as mentioned on the tyre) to reduce the chances of getting a puncture or a pinch flat.

Quick release:

Imported bicycles usually come along with a quick release system that lets you open the tyres with ease. As they hold your wheel on the bike, getting into a habit of checking whether the levers are tightly locked can boost your confidence a lot.

Brakes:

Finding out in the middle of your ride that your brakes are not working can be fatal. Hence, checking them before you go cycling is a good precaution.

Make sure you elevate the front wheel and spin it. Apply the front brake and ensure that the calipers and brake pads squeeze on each side of the wheel evenly.

Repeat the same process with the rear wheel.

Chain:

Always keep your eyes on the chain. See to it you always clean it and lube it. Every chain only last between 1500 to 10,000miles. This is due to several factors such as riding style, gear choice, weather condition and more.

Tail Light batteries:

If you ride early mornings or late at night, a taillight is a must. Next time you go out to ride, ensure it is fully charged. It is also a good idea to carry spare batteries in your saddle bag.

Helmet:

No matter what bicycle you ride, wearing a helmet that fits properly is a must. Keep an eye out for cracks and check the straps buckle beneath the chin. A good helmet will only serve its purpose in times of an accident.

And if you’ve already damaged the helmet in an accident, it’s time to replace it.

Bolts:

It is always a good idea to check the bolts of your stem and the handlebar of your bikes occasionally. This will help you avoid major accidents. Also, if the bolts need to be tightened, do not over-tighten them. Especially if you have a carbon stem, handlebar and seatpost, as they are likely to crack. If you are afraid to tighten the bolts, you can always take it to a nearby mechanic.

Toolkit:

Even if your bike seems to be at its best after ever check, carrying a toolkit is a must. Do read our recommended list of bike essentials to get a better understanding of what you should be carrying in your saddle bag.

If there are any other check-ups that you think we have missed out, do comment and let us know!