The Workshop Journal | Spoke & Wrench
A few seconds of checking before you head out could save you from an unexpected breakdown, or worse, an accident. That doesn't mean going over the whole bike every time.
If you ride regularly
You don't need to check everything before every ride. If you're on your bike most days or every weekend, you'll usually notice when something feels off. These three checks take less than a minute.
1. Tyre pressure
Give each tyre a good squeeze. It should feel firm. If it's soft or squishy, pump it up before you go.
2. Brakes
Squeeze each brake lever on its own. You want firm resistance and a lever that stops well short of the handlebar. This matters most with hydraulic disc brakes: if a lever feels spongy or pulls closer to the bar than usual, don't ride until it's been looked at.
3. Your starting gear
Click into the gear you want to start in and turn the pedals. Make sure it engages cleanly, without slipping or jumping.
That's it. Off you go.
If your bike has been sitting for a while
If it's been weeks or months since your last ride, or you're dusting the bike off after winter, it's worth doing a more thorough check. Do the three quick checks above, then go through the rest.
4. Tyre condition
Look for cracks, cuts or debris stuck in the tread. Tyres can perish while a bike sits unused.
5. Wheels and axles
Make sure the wheels are properly secured and spin without wobbling or rubbing. Check the rims for damage and look for loose or broken spokes.
6. Handlebars and steering
The handlebars and stem should feel solid, with no unexpected movement. Steering should turn smoothly, with no looseness or stiffness.
7. Chain and gears
A dry, rusty or dirty chain hurts performance and wears out faster. Run through the gears and listen for any unusual noises.
8. Saddle and pedals
Check that the saddle is secure and at the right height. Look for loose or damaged pedals and any movement around the cranks.
9. Frame and fork
Look for cracks, dents or impact damage, especially if the bike has had a fall or been knocked over in storage. Damage isn't always obvious.
The little things matter
Most bike problems start small: a new rattle, a bit of extra movement, or a part that isn't working quite as it should. Quick checks help you catch the warning signs, but they don't replace a professional service.
If something feels loose, damaged or unsafe, don't ride until it's been properly assessed.
Spoke & Wrench brings professional bicycle servicing to your home or workplace across Hornsby, Macquarie Park, The Hills, Sydney's Upper North Shore and surrounding areas.
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