Checking Your Bike

This sheet will help you to find problems with your bike. If you have any queries about this information please call us on 020 7231 6005. Learning how to fix all the possible problems is a subject in itself and we can't explain it all here.

Alternatively there are several easy-to-follow books available on the subject, for example: Fred Milson "The Bike Book" published by Haynes.
If you do not know how to fix a problem take the bike to a bike shop.

Fitting

• When you sit on the saddle your toes should be able to touch the ground on both sides.
• When stood over the crossbar (the bar that goes between the handlebars and the seat, if there is one) with your feet flat on the ground it should be at least 5cms below your groin.
• Your knees should not be able to touch the handlebars.
• Check that the seat and handlebars are not raised above their safe limits (there will be a marking showing on the seat or handlebar post if so).

Wheels & tyres

• Check that your wheels don't wobble from side to side.
• Spin each wheel in turn (it's easier if you turn the bike upside-down) and watch them as they spin to see if they're wonky, or if the tyres bulge out in a certain place.
• Check if the tyres are worn or if there are any cracks in them.
• Make sure the tyres are pumped up hard.

Steering

• Check that the handlebars turn smoothly, without getting stuck.
• Check that the handlebars are in line with the front wheel, and that you cannot twist them out of line.

Brakes

• Check that the right-hand brake lever works the front brake.
• Roll the bike forward while standing beside it, and pull the front brake.
• The back wheel should lift off the ground.
• Now do the same with the back brake rolling the bike backwards.
• Check that the brake pads (the rubber blocks that grip the wheel) touch the metal rims of the wheels and not the tyres.
• Check that your fingers can easily cover the brake levers with your wrists straight when you're sat on the bike.
• When you pull the brakes tight, check that you can still fit two fingers between the levers and the handlebars. If not then the brakes may need tightening.
• Check that the cables are not frayed.
• It is a legal requirement to have two working sets of brakes.

Pedals

• Flick the pedals - they should spin freely.
• Hold a crank (the arms which hold the pedals) and check that you can't wobble it from side to side.

Gears and chain

• Check that you can change into all gears easily. It is dangerous to have a bike that could jump out of gear without warning.
• Make sure the chain is well oiled, and is not so slack that it jumps when you pedal hard.

Accessories

• Check that any bags are securely fixed and don't get in the way of the wheels or your legs, or any lights.
• If your bike does not have a rear reflector, fit one - it is a legal requirement by night along with a front and rear light.

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