Bicycles are simple machines. However, because of their simplicity it is important that you give their mechanical systems a quick check before you ride. Taking a few minutes to perform the ABC Quick Check could prevent an accident and make your bike last longer.
A is for the air your tires need to perform properly. Use a pump with a pressure gauge to top off the air to the pressure printed on the tires sidewall. It is normal for tires to lose air between rides. After a winter in storage they may almost be flat. Starting at the valve, examine the tread around the tire for cuts, bulges, or worn places exposing the cords of the casing. Replace any tires that show damage.
B is for brakes to slow and stop your bike. The brake levers should pull smoothly and bring your bike to a safe and comfortable stop. The levers should stop when the brake pads grip the rim. At that point, there should be a thumb's width space between the brake lever and handlebar. They should snap back when released. The brake pads should squarely contact the rim, not the tire. If worn down to the wear grooves, the brake pads should be replaced.
C is for the cranks, chain and cassette that make you go. A forward turn of the crank should make the chain rings spin in a straight line, not wobble side to side. Grasping a crank arm in each hand and pushing side to side should reveal no looseness. If the entire crank moves then the bottom bracket bearings need to be replaced or adjusted. If only one arm moves, it needs to be tightened. The chain should have a thin film of oil and be flexible. It should not be stiff, show rust, or be gummed up. Turning the crank forward should spin the rear wheel smoothly. Turning the crank backwards should make the chain move smoothly through the rear derailleur pulleys. If one or more links hops or kinks, your chain may be dirty, rusty, broken or bent.
Quick is for the quick release levers that hold the wheels on and allow for easy wheel removal. They are not to be used like wing nuts and spun tight. Instead, tighten the release levers with the threaded block on the other side of the hub until the levers start to engage when they are half closed. Most levers are marked open and closed to indicate if they are in the proper position.
Check is for a slow test ride to make sure everything on your bike is working properly before starting out on your trip. Regular checks help you to become familiar with your bike when it's running well. Checking your bike in a quiet traffic free location makes it easier to see or hear something out of order that you wouldn't notice in traffic.
Checking your bike in a quiet traffic free location may enable you to see or hear something out of order that you wouldn't notice in traffic.
If anything looks questionable when performing the ABC Quick Check, you should seek the help of a mechanic at your local bicycle shop.
An edited version of this article was published in the Dominion Post on June 10, 2010 page 1-D
Chip Wamsley is a member of the Morgantown Municipal Bicycle Board and owner of Wamsley Cycles.
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