The quick safety check to do before every ride

A quick safety check before every ride catches most problems while they are still small. It takes a few minutes, needs no tools, and it is the same check we run on every bike that comes into the workshop. Work from the front of the bike to the back, so you never skip a part.

Run the safety check #

1. Squeeze the tyres

   Press each tyre hard with your thumb. It should barely give. A soft tyre gets punctures and makes steering vague, so pump it up first.

2. Pull the brakes

   Squeeze each brake lever and push the bike forward. The wheel should lock before the lever touches the handlebar.

3. Lift and drop each wheel

   Lift the front of the bike a little and let it drop. Listen for rattles. Then do the same with the back. Check the axle levers or nuts are tight.

4. Test the handlebars

   Hold the front wheel between your knees and try to turn the handlebars. They should not move on their own. Check the stem bolts if they do.

5. Spin the pedals and check the chain

   Turn the pedals backwards. The chain should run smoothly with no stiff links and no squeak.

6. Switch the lights on

   Check both lights work, even in daylight. A low battery is easy to miss until you need the light.

What to do when something fails #

A soft tyre or a dry chain found in the safety check you can sort out at home. For a flat, follow how to fix a flat bike tyre. For a squeaky chain, see how to clean and oil a bike chain.

Brakes are different. If a lever reaches the handlebar, or the brake squeals and grabs, read the signs your brake pads are worn and do not ride until it is fixed.

Lights and the law #

In the UK, you must have a white front light and a red rear light switched on when you ride after dark. The rules are in the Highway Code rules for cyclists. We fit and check lights while you wait.