It is important to carry out certain safety checks, each time, before you ride a bike. In today's busy life, though, you may find some of the following checks redundant. However all safety specialists agreed that some or all the following checks must be performed as frequently as possible.

 

Checking Brakes Of Your Bike

Checking the brakes frequently is the most important check of all safety measures. Unarguably, you would definitely want a smooth and reliable process of braking, whenever it's needed. This can be achieved by checking the three elements of the brake mechanism:

• Brake shoes are not worn out and are aligned correctly with the rim.

• Brake control cables are well lubricated, correctly adjusted and display no obvious wear.

• Brake control levers are well lubricated and tightly secured to the handlebar.
  
   

Checking Wheels & Tires

Just as it is with you car that the right pressure in the tires saves you gas, the same way goes with your bike. It saves you to do the extra work on paddling.  Here are some tips on how to check tires & wheels:

• Make sure tires are inflated to within the maximum recommended limits as displayed on the tire sidewall.
   

• Make sure tires have tread and have no bulges or excessive wear.
   

• Make sure that rims run true and have no obvious buckles or kinks. All spokes are tight and none is broken. Axle nuts are tight. In case your bicycle is fitted with quick release axles, make sure locking levers are correctly tensioned and in the closed position.
  
   

Checking Steering Mechanism

The best way is to ride your bike and paddle three or four time slowly to see movement of your bike in the forward direction. If the handlebar and stem are correctly adjusted and tightened, your bike will steer properly without any problem.

The adjustment between handlebar and stem can easily be disturbed due to the number of reasons such as when your bike fall downs from the standing position; the bike is pressed hard while leaning against a wall; you hit sideways or head-on while biking.

An adjust can be done if the setting is disturbed. Stand straddled on the front wheel while holding it firmly between your knees. Hold handle bars from outer grip and push them to the desired direction until they reach to the proper position.

Checking steering mechanism includes:

• Ensure that the handle bars are set correctly in relation to the forks and the direction of travel.
   

• Check that headset locking mechanism is properly adjusted and tightened.
  
   

Chain

The chain to the bike is like a ham-string to the human body. It controls the movement of a bike. It has to be adequately oiled ,cleaned, and able to run smoothly and firmly. The tension of the chain is most important part. Extra care is required in wet or dusty conditions.

 

Bearing

Frequent checks of the bearing is highly recommended. All bearings must be properly lubricated all the time in order to run freely and to avoid excess movement, grinding, rattling, etc. The important locations to check, includes the Headset ,wheel bearings, pedal bearings and bottom bracket bearings.

 

Cranks and Pedals

This check is to ensure that the pedals are securely tightened to the cranks. The cranks are securely tightened to the axle and are not bent.

 

Derailleur

If your bike has one, this check needs to be performed to ensure that the front and/or rear mechanisms are adjusted and function properly. Also, that the control levers are securely attached. The derailleur, shift levers and control cables are properly lubricated.

              Accessories          

It is very important to ensure that all reflectors are properly fitted and are not obscured by any way. For riding in the night or dark, it is extremely important to make sure that the dynamo or battery is charged. The lights fitted to the front and rear of the bicycle are functioning properly. Other fittings on the bike, as well, are securely fastened and functioning properly.

           Helmets

It is strongly advisable that approved bicycle's safety helmet be worn at all times while riding your bicycle. This is a law in most of the States. In addition, if you are carrying a passenger in a child safety seat, he or she must also be wearing a helmet. A bicycle helmet must fit correctly. The right helmet is the one which is comfortable, lightweight and have good ventilation to keep your head cool.