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The Pre-Ride Bike Check Every Rider Should Do
A short routine to run before every ride: tyres, brakes, wheels, chain, steering, loose parts and lights, plus what to do when something does not feel right.
Science, Health and Safety
Pre-Ride Checks
Quick checks that catch problems before they become crashes.
A Pre-Ride Check Before a Trick Session
Extra checks for grips, pedals, pegs and bar ends before practising skills, plus a gentle warm-up, with safety framing for risky riding.
How to Check Quick Releases and Thru-Axles
Why a properly closed quick release or thru-axle matters, how to confirm your wheels are secure, and when to ask a bike shop for help.
How to Check Your Chain and Gears Before a Ride
A quick look at chain condition and a test of each gear before you leave, with advice on what to do if shifting feels rough or noisy.
How to Check Your Headset and Steering
Simple ways to feel for play or roughness in your bike's steering, what the signs mean, and why headset problems should be fixed promptly.
How to Check Your Lights and Reflectors Before Riding
Make sure your lights work, are aimed sensibly and your reflectors are clean and in place before setting off, including a quick battery and mount check.
How to Check Your Tyres Before a Ride
How to look for cuts, wear, embedded debris and soft tyres before you ride, and why you should follow the pressure range printed on the tyre sidewall.
How to Do a Bounce Test for Loose Parts
Dropping the bike gently to listen for rattles, and what loose headsets, bottles, racks and other parts tend to sound like before you ride.
How to Test Your Brakes Before Riding
Simple squeeze and push tests that show whether your brakes engage firmly, what poor performance looks like, and when to stop and see a bike shop.
The ABCDE Quick Check Explained
A walk through the air, brakes, cranks and chain, drop test and everything else steps of a widely taught quick check, and how to remember them.
What to Pack for a Short Ride
A sensible minimal kit for a short ride: water, a phone, ID and a few basic repair items, with tips on keeping it light and secure.
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