You may not be a pro, but you can give your bicycle a professional check before every ride and can prevent major damages and accidents from happening.

Most of the time we just take out our MTB or roadster bike for a ride and realize something fishy in the middle of the journey.  So, it is inevitable to take up a pre-ride inspection of your bike to ensure a safe ride and avoid a roadside malfunction. Here are a few steps. Steps 1-4 should be followed before every ride, while the following steps are recommended if you have time. However, they should be performed periodically to ensure safety, maintenance and prevention.

1.      Tyres

Each tyre has a recommended PSI (pounds per square inch) pressure written on the side walls. Make sure that your tyre pressure falls within that range. The pressure should be kept optimum to avoid getting a pinch flat or puncture in the middle of the journey. Also, inspect the tyre for any sign of wear or tear or worn patches.

Why it is important to care about tyre pressure?

2.      Brakes

Elevate the front wheel of your bicycle and start spinning it. Now, apply the front brake. Ensure that the brake pad and the callipers squeeze the side of the front wheel evenly. Repeat the same process for the rear wheel. If one side of the calliper touches the wheel and other does not, re-centre them by shifting them with your hands.

If the brake lever comes all way close to the handlebar before the wheel stops, it’s time to check your brake cables and brake pads.

Read our blog on improving cycling skills.

3.      Quick Release Levers

These levers are usually found in imported bikes. You need to make sure that these levers are closed properly with adept tension. If you are unable to understand the mechanics, prefer visiting a nearby cycle repair shop or a bicycle mechanic.

Read More: Why is it Important To Teach Your Kids Cycling at a Younger Age?

4.      Wheels check

There are two ways to check them.

First, place your bike in a resting position on the ground. Now hold the handlebar tight with one hand and grab the front wheel from the other hand. Now try rocking the wheel sideways. There should be no movement in any direction.

Secondly, lift the front tyre and give it a free spin. If the wheel wobbles or makes a crunching/grinding sound, take your bike to a cycle shop near you or visit a mechanic immediately. Perform the same activity with the other tyre.

5.      Check Stem

The stem of a cycle is a component that holds the handlebar in place. Stand over the bike while keeping the front wheel between your legs. Hold the handlebar tightly and firmly. Now try to move the handlebar without moving the wheel. If any turning movement is shown by the stem, don’t ride the bike. Get it repaired by a qualified mechanic.

6.      Chain

If you see any rusted, greasy surface or grime while inspecting the chain, clean it and lubricate the chain properly. In case, the chain is completely rusted you must not take a chance and get it replaced immediately.

Put your cycle on the stand and spin the pedals backwards. Now, closely inspect is the chain moving freely over the cogs? If the chain is making any kind of sounds or skipping the cogs, clean it properly and re-lubricate it. The life of a chain usually depends on factors such as riding style, weather, gear choice and how often the chain is lubricated.

7.      Helmet

The helmet is the main protective gear which is must for every rider. Inspect your helmet for any cracks and make sure that your helmet offers you a snug fit on the forehead. Cross-check the strap buckle and get it replaced if it is broken. There is no point in wearing a helmet if it does not stay in place and is unable to give you protection in case of an accident.   

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