Top 10 Simple Checks for Your Bike

1. Test Your Brakes.

Does applying pressure to your brakes effectively stop  both the front wheel and back wheel. If you have to squeeze very hard, tighten up the brake cables or if necessary replace.

2. Brake Blocks.

• Brake blogs should align with the rim and should never touch the tyre
• Make Sure there is sufficient brake block. If they are worn or getting close to being worn out replace them. There should be a gap of 1-2mm between the rim and brake blocks

3. Check Nothing is rubbing on Wheel.

Give both wheels a quick spin. Make sure they don’t rub on anything like mudguards brakes or even frame.

4. Chain Wear 

Try lifting the chain from the big chain ring. If the chain is worn it will be possible to lift the chain so there is a significant gap between chain and chain ring. If it is very worn it may be necessary to replace both chain and cassette at the bike.

5. Saddle Height

Make sure you saddle height is correct for you leg length. See checking saddle height here. 

6. Oil

Make sure your chain is well lubed with a suitable lubrication. The oil should not be too thick or it will pick up dirt, but, neither should the chain feel dry. Before and after wet conditions the chain should always be sprayed

7. Tyre Pressure 

Don’t give more effort than you need. Check the ideal tyre pressure on the outside of the tyre and inflation (80-100) is a reasonable guide for a road bike.

8. Tyre Wear.

Rotate the tyre and take the opportunity to remove pieces of flint with a screwdriver. If the tyre is wearing through, replace it – the more it is worn the easier it is to puncture.

9. Gears 

Check the gears are not slipping. If they are they may be misaligned or the chain and cassette are worn through.

10. Make Sure you have spares.

Even for short distances it is advisable to have spare inner tubes and necessary allen keys. Unless you are willing to walk back with the bike, it is best to take spares and a portable pump. (I have ended up buying a spare pump in the middle of a long ride, when I realise I have no pump