Performing a quick bike safety check before hopping on your mountain bike is crucial for ensuring a safe and enjoyable ride. This routine practice helps identify and address potential issues with the bike’s components, such as brakes, tires, chain, and gears, which are vital for optimal performance and rider safety.

Whether you are a student-athlete attending a Georgia Cycling event on a trail or a family taking a bike ride together in the neighborhood, everyone should know and regularly perform the ABCDE Bike Check. By dedicating a few minutes to a thorough safety check, riders can significantly reduce the risk of injuries, enhance their confidence in their equipment, and focus on enjoying the adventure without unnecessary interruptions or hazards.

When you regularly do the ABCDE Bike Check before every ride, you will find that you can go through the whole process fairly quickly – and just like that, you’re on your way to safe riding!

A = AIR

Be sure you have enough air in your tires. Check the sidewall of the tire and inflate the tires to the rated pressure as indicated on the sidewall. Use a pressure gauge to ensure proper tire pressure before riding. Spin the wheels and make sure the tires are not worn out.

B = BRAKES

Have a look at your brakes, check the brakes and cables to make sure they aren’t worn down. See if you can reach the brake levers comfortably. Then, lift one tire up at a time and spin it; squeeze the levers to see if the tire stops. The brake pads should be clean, straight, and contact the rims properly. During wet conditions, it’s especially important to check your brake pads and make sure they are good to go.

C = CHAIN

Always check that the chain is clean and lubricated. You never want your metal to be bright orange with rust or black and brown with grease and road gunk. A rusty chain drags, changes gear poorly, and may even snap. While you’re down there, spin your pedals and check that the cranks don’t wiggle from side to side and that there are no grinding noises from the bottom bracket.

D = DERAILLEUR

Ensure your derailleur – the device that moves the chain between gears – is straight and clears your spokes comfortably.

E - EVERYTHING ELSE

Inspect your bike for broken or loose parts. Additionally, inspect safety gear like helmets and pads to ensure they are in good condition and fit properly.

ABOUT THE CONTRIBUTING AUTHOR: Michel van Musschenbroek has been a volunteer with the Georgia Cycling Association since 2015.  He is currently one of the coach trainers in the state and is a former provincial champion and nationally ranked speed skater.  Entering his first cycling race in 1974, he had success competing in Road Races, Criteriums, and Track and was regional Time Trial and Criterium champion.