The Firefox Guide to Safer Cycling
The following basic checks are your guide to safer cycling:
• Before riding your bicycle
o Are tyre pressures correct?
o Do Brakes
work effectively?
o Are lights working?
• Weekly
o Condition of tyres.
o Condition of brake shoes.
o Chain
lubrication.
o Tightness of all nuts & bolts.
• Monthly
o Are cranks tight?
o Are gears running smoothly?
o No
play in bottom bracket axle or wheel cones.
o Is headset tight – no
play?
o Cable lubrication.
Riding Technique
If you are a new rider, the tendency may
be to select a gear, which has you pedaling slowly. However, as a faster pedal
rate maintains momentum with least effort, you should aim to achieve a pedal
rate of between 65 and 85 revolutions per minute. This may feel strange and
rather too rapid at first, but if train yourself into it you will finish your
trip in rather better condition, having placed least strain on your knees and
leg muscles.
Be Prepared
On trips of any distance, particularly in hot
whether, take frequent sips from your water bottle.
Always carry a puncture repair kit with you on a trip. It can be a long walk back! Carry an Allen key and a spanner – a dumbbell spanner with different nut sizes is useful.
Bikes can be stolen! Buy a good lock, preferably a lock with a bracket.
If you encounter any difficulties the staff at Firefox Bikes will be happy to advise you.
