Pre-Ride Safety Check

Taking a minute or two to check out your bike before a ride can help maximize your safety and enjoyment while you are out.

Here are a few reminder of things to check:

1. Tires

Check you tire pressure. Too high air pressure will cause the tire to act like a basketball rather than following the surface of the road. Too low air pressure can cause pinch flats and elevated rolling resistance.

Check for rips, dry rot, cracks or peeling areas.

2. Brakes

Make sure brakes are working properly and that you don't have issues with stretched cables or fraying.

Check out the front and rear brake pads to ensure that they aren't rubbing on the tires. They should be square on the rims to ensure nice, smooth braking.

3. Seat Post & Handlebar Stem

Check that your seat post and handlebars are set at the correct height and that both are torqued down correctly.

4. Chains & Gears

As you start to pedal, check that your chain is not rubbing against the derailleurs and is turning smoothly through your front chainrings and rear cogs.

Run through your different gears to make sure they are shifting properly and smoothly and that there isn't any chain slippage. Also, check the chain for cleanliness and correct lubrication.

Finally, Check for any loose parts or strange noises. Your bike should ride smoothly and not rattle.