Before you roll out, use these strategies to ensure your bike is up to the task
Properly inflated tires make the ride much more enjoyable and safe. A well-tensioned chain and properly adjusted brakes allow you and the bike to go and stop exactly when you want.
Check tire pressure
Grab your gauge and check the psi (pounds per square inch) inside your tires. Locate the valve stem and remove the cap. Press your gauge onto the valve stem and make sure a firm connection is established. A good connection is one where you can’t hear any air hissing out of the valve stem. Check the sidewall of the tire for the manufacturer’s recommended psi.
Check chain tension
Take note of the chain’s position on the gears. Make sure it is not sagging excessively below the gear rings. A loose chain can slip off, become tangled in your crank/pedals, break wheel spokes, and cause you to launch from the bicycle! Also ensure the chain is not rusty, has a light coating of lubricant (chain oil or grease, not WD-40), and has no obvious signs of loose or broken links. Before you ride, lift the rear tire, pedal the bike, and make sure the chain and gear ring systems move freely without any binding or slipping.
Check brake function
When your brakes are not grabbing enough or are dragging continuously, you’re gonna have a bad time. Whether the bike you’re riding has traditional rim brakes or state-of-the-art hydraulic disc brakes, you need to make sure they’re working properly. Lift each wheel individually and listen for any dragging or binding while the wheel is spinning. Refer to the bicycle’s owner’s manual or the manufacturer’s website for any tips on how to adjust or replace brake parts.
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