Pre-Ride Inspection

A-B-C Quick Check

To ensure overall safety, use the A-B-C QUICK CHECK procedure before you ride your bicycle:

Air - Check tire pressure and inflate to recommended maximum pressure. Look for damage and tread wear. Spin both wheels to check that the rims are true. Watch the distance between the rims and the brake shoe as the wheel spins. The distance should be the same all of the way around the wheel.
Brakes - Examine brake pads, cables, and housings. Ensure that all brake pads open and close together and operate smoothly.
Crank - Check for bearing play in crank and headset.
Quick Release - Many bicycles are equipped with quick-release axles rather than the traditional thread and nut type of wheel axle. Make sure any quick-release devices are tightened and tires are secured to the frame.
Component Check - Check bicycle components and ensure all are functioning properly by taking a slow ride in an area free of traffic, such as a parking lot. Bicycles should also be lightly bounced on the ground while you listen for anything that may be loose.

There should be two to three inches of clearance between the rider's crotch and the top-tube while straddling the bicycle.
Saddle height influences how effectively power is delivered from your legs to the pedals. Proper saddle height reduces knee strain and thereby reduces the likelihood of knee fatigue or injury.
Adjust the saddle so that when seated, your heels rest solidly on the pedals. Pedal backwards. If your pelvis rocks from side to side in order to keep your heels on the pedals, the saddle is too high. Lower the seat until your heels remain on the pedals eliminating the rocking.
Legs should not be 100% straight while cycling, they should only be 95% extended at the bottom of the stroke, with the balls of the feet squarely placed on the pedals.
The saddle should support most of your body weight. Body weight should be centered on the saddle, with your arms flexed and relaxed.
The manufacturer inscribes seat post and handlebar stems with maximum adjustment height marks. Never raise a seat post or handlebar stem higher than these marks. There must be sufficient post or stem inside the frame to support the stress and weight.

Be Sure Your Bicycle is Registered!