Safety Check

A Pre Ride Safety Check is something you can perform yourself before each ride. If you're unsure how to perform a safety check take it to a qualified bicycle mechanic.

• Brakes
• Bolts
• Saddle
• Pedals
• Wheel Attachments
• Tires
• Grips
• Gears

Check Out Bicycle Mechanic Training Classes

Brake Check: squeeze brake lever and feel for smoothness and consistency. Brake pads should be touching flat against side wall of rim on braking surface, tighten brake pad bolt. Careful pads are not coming in contact with sidewall of tire.

Disc Brakes: brake pads should be touching on the widest part of the rotor. If stopping power is poor take it to a professional. Inspect for leaks from lever to caliper. Rotor should never come in contact by hands or any other types of oils or lubricants.

A tool can be put on every single bolt your bike has that is visible. As a rule of thumb tighten until snug then a 1/8 to 1/4 turn more. The smaller the bolt the gentler the torque. When in doubt take it to a professional.

Inspect tires for cuts, debris, chunks of rubber missing or torn. Grab a handful of spokes and squeeze, tension should be uniform. Check sidewall of tire for pressure recommendations. When in doubt take the range and divide it in half and then test ride.

Handlebar grips and bar tape should not be loose, fraying or missing. Replace as needed.

I Iisted shifting last, because without safety first your ride experience could be an unforgettable one. Run through all your gears in every possible ride scenario. Shift quickly and with intention. Better to stress the system now rather than in the heat of the moment.

Take a moment to lube the chain, front and rear derailleur. Just a drop on every pivot point for derailleurs. Wipe off excess oil and please stay away from Aerosols! That mist is like a sneeze, it will travel and land on parts that do not appreciate slipperiness, i.e. brake pads, side walls on rims and rotors.