ABC Quick Check for Road Bikes

We do a much abbreviated version of this before every ride.  Please do a more thorough check of your bike periodically during the season to be safe, avoid break downs, and extend the life of your bike.  Most importantly, show up with a well-maintained bike and fully inflated tires so you don’t delay the group on our no drop rides!  This quick check assumes your bike has been properly tuned up.

1.       A is for air

• Inflate tires to rated pressure as listed on the sidewall of the tire.
• Use a pressure gauge to insure proper pressure.
• Check for damage to tire tread and sidewall; replace if damaged

2.       B is for brakes

• Inspect pads for wear; replace if there is less than ¼” of pad left
• Check brake level travel; at least 1″ between bar and lever when applied
• Apply the front brake.  The brake shoes should contact the rim, not the tire.  Attempt to push the bike forward with the brake applied.  The front wheel should lock and the rear wheel should come off the ground.  Do the same with the rear brake.
• Pick the front wheel up slightly and give it a forward spin.  It should spin freely without rubbing against the brake shoes.

3.       C is for cranks, chain and cassette

• Attempt to pull the crank arms side to side.  There should be no movement. Lube the threads only, nothing else
• Check your chain for wear; 12 links should measure no more than 12 1/8 inches.  We recommend using a Park Tool chain wear indicator.  You can go right over the handlebars if your chain breaks at the wrong time.
• If your chain skips on your cassette, you might need a new one or just an adjustment.
• Spin the pedals; they should spin freely.

4.     Quick is for quick releases

• Hubs need to be tight in the frame; your quick release should engage at 90°
• Your hub quick release should point back to insure that nothing catches on it
• Inspect brake quick releases to insure that they have been re-engaged

5.        Check is for check your equipment

• Make sure your CPSC or Snell-approved helmet is on top of your head with straps fastened and tight (one finger-breadth maximum) beneath your chin.
• Make sure the cleats on your shoes and your pedals are clean and your shoes are releasing properly.
• Pick your bike up off the ground 6 inches and drop it, to simulate a pothole.  Objects should not fall off your bike with this maneuver. Inspect the bike for loose or broken parts; tighten, replace or fix them
• Take a quick ride to check if derailleurs by going through all the gears.
• Pay extra attention to your bike during the first few miles of the ride.  If there’s a problem, its better to discover it before you are too far from your car.