Is your bike as fit as you are?

16 Aug 2022

YOU’RE PREPARING FOR THE RIDE – BUT WHAT ABOUT YOUR BIKE?  

It might be time to give your treadlie a thorough tune-up, or to book in with your local bike shop to ensure it’s working well. 

Be sure to check the items below on your bike: 

Bearings 

Wheel bearings, front and rear 
Headset 
Bottom bracket 
Pedals

Drive train 

Chain – has it stretched and worn beyond its limit? 
Chain rings 
Cogs 
If any one of the drive train components is suspect, the other components need to be carefully assessed also. Worn drive train components can lead to poor gear shifting or the chain slipping. 
Cranks and chain ring bolts should be tight.

Gears 

Derailleurs 
Cables – replace any frayed cables, or any cracked or broken cable outers. 
Shifters – grip shift style (twist) shifters need to be cleaned and lubricated.

Brakes 

Pads – properly aligned and not too worn (disc brake pads wear too). 
Pads (rim type or disc) not dragging. 
Cables – replace any frayed cables, or any cracked or broken cable outers. 
Hydraulic discs – should not be spongy.

Wheels 

Check for buckles, large or small. 
Buckled wheels will also affect braking performance. 
Check for broken or loose spokes.

Suspension 

Performing correctly, without leaks, rattles, or backwards and forwards play.

Accessories 

Racks, lights, drink bottle cages, etc. should be tight, not broken, and with all the correct fittings.

Spares and tools that you must bring with you include: 

Spare tubes of the correct size for your wheels and tyres. 
Patch kit and tyre levers. 
Basic tools (Phillips head and flat-head screwdrivers, Allen keys or spanners) or a multi-tool.

Talk to your bike shop about the need to take any special tools specific to your bike.  
 
Bicycle mechanics will be available along the Challenge Tour route.   