Wheels
- Wheels should be tightly fitted, with the quick release lever secure in the closed position
- If your wheels don’t have quick release levers, check that the nuts on both sides of the wheel are secure
- Spokes should be of equal tension and not loose – pluck each spoke, the sound from each should be similar
- Tyres – the recommended tyre pressure is usually written somewhere on the tyre – pump your tyre to this pressure
Saddle
- Check seat post isn’t loose and you haven’t exceeded the limit marked on the post
- Tighten seat post clamp
Chain
- The chain should be clean and oiled
- Do not use too much oil as it will pick up dirt and be difficult to clean
Pedals
Make sure your pedals spin smoothly and that your cranks are on tight, spin smoothly and don’t creak
The stem
- Check that your front wheel and stem do not move independently and that your handlebar clamp bolts are tight. – you can perform this check by standing in front of the bike, holding the front wheel between your knees, and twisting the handlebars.
- You can prevent any movement by tightening the stem bolts and the handlebar clamp
Headset
Check if there is any rocking or clicking in the headset – grasp the head tube with one hand and apply the front brake with the other hand. This will steady the bike so that you can shake the headset to detect any rocking or clicking.
Brakes
- Check both brakes are working properly – both sides of the brake mechanism should move when the brake is applied.
- Turn adjuster screw on brake if necessary
Frame
Look for cracks or damage – particularly focus on the area where the frame joins the head tube.
Lights
Check lights shine brightly to maximise visibility.
More details on checking your bike – the M check in 11 steps from the Walk Wheel Cycle Trust.