Spring has a way of getting cyclists excited again. The days are getting longer, the roads are drying out, and those rides you’ve been thinking about all winter suddenly feel very real.
Before you head out on the first big ride of the season, it’s worth giving your bike a quick once-over. Winter conditions can be tough on components, and catching small issues early can save you from bigger problems later.
Here are 10 simple things to check before the riding season properly gets underway.
- The Chain
Your chain is one of the most important parts of the bike, and also one of the fastest-wearing.
Over time, chains “stretch” as the pins and rollers wear. If it’s too worn, it will start damaging the cassette and chainrings.
A simple chain wear tool will tell you if it needs replacing. If the chain has been through a muddy winter, there’s a good chance it’s ready for a new one.
- Cassette and Chainrings
While you’re looking at the drivetrain, check the teeth on the cassette and chainrings.
Signs of wear include teeth that look sharp or “hooked”, skipping under load and rough shifting.
If you’ve replaced your chain regularly, these components will usually last longer, but it’s worth checking before the riding season begins.
- Brake Pads
Brake pads wear gradually, so it’s easy to miss how thin they’ve become. Check for pads worn close to the backing plate, uneven wear and contamination from oil or dirt.
With rim brakes, make sure the pad grooves are still visible. With disc brakes, take a look through the calliper or remove the wheel for a better view.
Good brakes are essential, especially on steep descents, of which there are plenty in the Dales!
- Tyres
Tyres take a beating over winter, particularly on rough roads and gravel tracks.
Look for cuts or cracks in the rubber, worn tread and bulges or damaged sidewalls.
Also check the tyre pressure before heading out. Properly inflated tyres make a huge difference to comfort and performance.
- Cables and Housing
Gear and brake cables can stretch, corrode or become sticky over time.
If you notice:
- Sluggish shifting
- Heavy braking feel
- Gears struggling to index properly
…it might be time for new cables or a simple adjustment.
Fresh cables can make a bike feel like new again.
- Bearings
Bearings keep everything turning smoothly. These include wheel hubs, bottom bracket and headset.
Spin the wheels and check for roughness or play. Hold the front brake and rock the bike slightly to feel for headset movement.
If anything feels gritty or loose, it’s worth getting it looked at before riding more regularly.
- Bolts and Fasteners
Over time, bolts can loosen slightly from regular riding.
Check key areas such as stem bolts, seatpost clamp, bottle cage bolts and brake mounts.
A quick check with the correct tool can prevent annoying noises or bigger issues later.
- Wheels
Give both wheels a quick inspection. Look for wobbles in the rim, loose spokes and any rubbing on the brake pads.
A wheel that’s slightly out of true can usually be adjusted quickly, but it’s best caught early.
- Suspension (MTB Riders)
If you ride mountain bikes, check that suspension components are moving smoothly.
Look for oil leaks, unusual noises and reduced travel or stiffness.
Suspension benefits from regular servicing, especially after a wet winter.
- Cleaning and Lubrication
Finally, give the whole bike a good clean and re-lube the drivetrain.
Winter grit, mud and road salt can accelerate wear on chains, cassettes and bearings. A proper clean helps everything run better and makes it easier to spot worn parts.
Once clean, apply fresh chain lube and wipe off the excess.
Your bike will feel noticeably smoother on the road or trail.
A Quick Check Now Saves Problems Later
Spending 20 minutes checking over your bike before the riding season begins can prevent mechanical problems when you’re miles from home.
And if you’d rather leave it to the experts, our workshop at 3 Peaks Cycles is always happy to help. A quick spring service can get everything running perfectly and ready for the months ahead.
Pop into the shop, give us a call, or get in touch if your bike needs a bit of TLC before the riding season properly kicks off.
