Prepping for a Bike Ride: What to Check for Before You Go

This is a collaborative post.

Seasoned riders and new enthusiasts alike can benefit from creating a pre-riding checklist to make sure they are ready for the road or trail. Here are a few things you should keep in mind when getting yourself, and your bike prepared for your next big ride.

Location, Location, Location

Like any other mode of travel, it’s important that you have the right tools for the trip at hand. If you’re going off-road, you’ll need a good mountain bike to handle all of the harsh bumps and uneven surfaces you’ll find yourself on.

Street bikes tend to have smaller wheels made specifically for pavement, and the two types don’t cross over well. Racing bikes, too, have their own peculiarities and won’t be the best option for a leisurely ride. If you want the most options, look into some of the best hybrid bikes available so you can literally cover the most ground on your trips.

Learn Your ABCs

There are three main parts of your bike that should be on every checklist, no matter what kind of riding you plan to do. Easily remembered as the ABCs of riding, these will make sure your bike will get you where you want to go. An if you have any question, just pop into a bike shop and ask an expert.

• Air: The best way to prevent flats and keep your ride smooth is to keep your tires well inflated. Air pressure levels are indicated on the sidewall of your tire, just like on a car.
• Brakes: Give your brake levers a squeeze to make sure they operate smoothly and make a solid connection, otherwise you won’t be able to stop when you need to.
• Chain: Look at the chain and gears of your bike, making sure there aren’t any obstructions or buildup of grime. Give it a good lube up, too, and you’ll be ready to go.

Following this simple list will keep your bike in great working order and ready to hit the road when you are!

Size Matters

If it’s been a while since your last ride, it’s a good idea to make sure you haven’t grown substantially and need to adjust your bicycle or even get a new one. Straddling the seat, your feet should barely touch the ground when the bike is completely upright.

When getting a new ride, look into getting one that best fits your riding style. Picking a unisex model is a good option, though because of body types can be drastically different some of the best women’s bikes are excellent choices as well.

Getting the Gear

Before you head onto the pavement, there are some things you’ll want to have with you for extended rides. A quick list includes the following:

• Helmet
• Bike lock/chain
• Water
• Portable pump
• Quick flat repair kit
• Cell-phone mount
• Lights
• Map

Throwing together a little bag with everything you need can ensure you get out the door when you’re ready to go instead of searching around for odds and ends.

Getting ready for your bike trip means making sure you have the basic essentials at hand. Before your next ride, search online to find great deals on accessories and new bikes to make each ride a memorable one!