Checking your bike

Checking your bike is quick and easy to do (you don’t need to be a cycle mechanic).

With practice it should only take a few minutes if you follow the M check system. Check your bike in the following order as shown on the picture opposite.

Having a well maintained bike is an essential part of staying safe and helps avoid breakdowns and accidents.

1

23

4

5

6

Check that your wheels are securely fitted (this is especially important if you have quick release wheel levers). If not check wheel nuts

•Check your tyre for pressure by pushing it with your thumb, it should feel firm. Look for cracks and bulges in your tyres

•Check that no spokes are loose

•Check wheel rims and spin the wheel to ensure that it is not buckled (Rear wheel and tyre checked in the same way)

Wheels & Tyres

Check that the front brake is working by pulling on the brake level.

•Check that the brake blocks touch the wheel rim when pulled on and are not worn

•Check that the brake cables are not frayed or corroded. (Back brake checked in the same way)

Brakes

X

• Check that the handlebars are secure by holding the front wheel between your knees and pulling on the handlebars left and right

• Check that handlebars are correctly aligned

• Check that handlebars are not raised above the safety mark

Handlebars

Move down the frame checking it as you go to the pedals.

•Spin the pedals to check that they move freely and they are securely attached

• Check that the chain is oiled and is not rusty

• Check that the gears work and run smoothly. When changing gear it should not easily come off the front chain wheel, or jam the rear derailleur

Pedals , Gears & Chain

Move back up the frame checking as you go to the saddle.

• Check that it is securely fitted by rocking it to the left and right

•Check it is not above the minimum safety marker

•Check that the saddle is straight and level.

Saddle

•If lights are fitted, check that they are working

•Reflectors must be fitted, white at the front and red at the rear

Lights & reflectors