If you would like to feel more confident that your bicycle is going to get you from point a to point b. Then checking it over before you start out and knowing what to look for can save a lot of headaches and keep you safe. As a base of checking a bike over a bicycle mechanic will do these basic checks.
Here’s a quick checklist.
- Tyres pressure place the right amount of pressure in them (there are numbers on the tyre to for max pressure rates )
- Pull brakes levers to the check if they work.
- Check the wheel bolts and or fasteners are tight and secure.
- If you have it and it needs it, give the chain some lubricant, don’t overdo it. (as a guide imagine your putting on drop of oil on each link )
Tyre Pressure
This is the best thing you can do to make your ride more enjoyable, comfortable and confident in getting to your destination. Flat tyres and punctures in most cases are from the tyres being too low in pressure.
Brakes
It’s pretty obvious that you need brakes to stop. So before setting off make sure when you pull the levers in they feel firm and don’t go all the way into the handle bar. Once you have pulled the levers in, push the bike forward. You’re aiming to have both wheels not rotate the wheels should remain locked in place.
Wheels
Whatever type of mechanism that attaches your wheels to the bicycle make sure they are clamped correctly to the frame and fork of the bike.
Chain Lube
Lubricating the chain helps with better gear changing, easier pedalling and a quieter ride. It gives your chain a longer life and will save you money in the long run. You can use a specific chain lube from your local bike shop. Or you can use a light oil. The amount of oil to use is to image a drop of oil on each link so it’s not a lot. Too much lubricant just attracts dirt onto the chain and it’s not needed.
Contact us.
Have any other questions about bicycle mechanics drop us a line rider@bykerider.com. We will be more than happy to point you in the right direction. As some back ground I have spent a little over 8 years in the bike industry as a bicycle mechanic. And also a life time of working on my own race bikes.
