Spring Check Up: 5 Things to Check on Your Bike

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Your bike has enjoyed a long winter’s nap — it’s time to get riding! Make sure you are ready to roll by checking these 5 things on your bike this spring.

By Katie mcnamara

1. Check your Cleanliness

WHY: A clean bike is a happy bike! Not only does removing excess mud and direct extend the life of your components, it allows you to intentionally inspect all parts of your bike! Maybe there is a crack in your frame or missing bolt hidden under dirt and grime — a clean bike is key to a thorough inspection!

HOW: Grab a bottle of cleaner & degreaser like Simple Green and an old t-shirt (or lint-free cloth if you’re feeling fancy). Work your way from the top of your bike down making sure to clean the frame, wheels, pedals, derailleur and seat. I only hose my bike under very very special circumstances (blog post coming soon!) and recommend you go #waterless for your spring clean!

2. Check your Wheels n’ Tires

WHY: The most common “mechanical” or mechanical issue on bikes is a flat tire! Wheels – or rims – are important for a smooth and and stable ride. Tires provide traction and cushion. Together, they help you have a ton of fun!

HOW: Lift one end of the bike up or hang your bike by its saddle. Spin the wheel and look for any wobbling or weird noises. Look at the rim for any dents or other damage. Make sure no spokes are loose or broken. Next, check your tire tread for any uneven wear or splits/cracks on the sides. Pump your tires to the correct PSI, let them sit overnight and check again to make sure there are no leaks!

2. Check your Brakes

WHY: Speed control is important! It’s fun to feel the wind of your hair and it’s fun to stop and slow down when you wanna, too!

HOW: Check your brake pads! Depending on your bike, you may have rim brakes or disc brakes. I like to get my phone flashlight out to see better. You want to make sure: 1) brake pads are present 2) for disc brakes: they are at least the thickness of 3 business cards stacked together, for rim brakes: you can still see ridges/groves on the pads. Next, squeeze your brake lever and watch for your brake pads to hit your rotor (disc brake) or rim (rim brake) smoothly and evenly. Finally, spin each wheel one at a time and test the brakes — your wheel should stop & your brakes your inspire confidence!

4. Check your Chain

WHY: Your chain is a key part of transferring the power from your legs to your bike! A bike that has been sitting all winter can have a dry, unhappy chain or even some rust build-up.

HOW: Inspect your chain for anything wonky, like twists or stubborn links. Apply a healthy amount of lube and let it sit overnight before wiping with rag.

4. Go for a test ride!

WHY: Give your bike the stamp of approval! Or, make a plan to get any issues addressed/fixed. Test riding close to home is much better than running into a problem out on your first ride!

HOW: Go for a neighborhood spin! Run through all of your gears, feeling and listening for smooth, even shifting. Test your brakes at a leisurely pace, than crank it up a bit and try braking at higher speed! Make some circles or tighter turns, feeling for smooth turning and stability.

Investing time into a bike check-up now can help avoid problems later down the road! Reach out with any questions about your bike. And if there is anything that needs fixin’, we can help!

Happy Trails!

– Katie