Check your bicycle in one minute: the ABC quick check

Most bicycle problems can be spotted in under a minute, before they become a puncture, a brake failure or a fall. The ABC Quick Check is a routine used by cycling clubs and bike shops around the world: Air, Brakes, Chain and cranks, plus Quick releases. Do it every time you ride.

A is for Air

• Press each tyre firmly with your thumb. It should feel hard, not squashy.
• The correct pressure range is printed on the side of the tyre. A pump with a gauge makes this easy. Low pressure leads to flats and makes pedalling harder.
• Look for cuts, cracks or worn patches, and pick out any small stones or glass stuck in the tread before they work their way through.

B is for Brakes

• Look at the brake pads. If there is less than about 3 millimetres (one eighth of an inch) of pad left, or the grooves have worn away, they need replacing.
• The pads should meet the wheel rim squarely when you squeeze the lever, not touch the tyre or miss the rim.
• Squeeze each lever. It should move easily and spring back when released.
• There should be at least an inch (about 2.5 cm) of space between the lever and the handlebar when you squeeze hard. If the lever touches the handlebar, the brakes need tightening.
• Push the bicycle forward and apply each brake. The wheel should stop firmly.

C is for Chain and Cranks

• The chain should look like metal, clean and lightly oiled, not covered in rust or black gunk.
• Turn the pedals backwards and watch the chain run smoothly over the gears.
• Try to wiggle the crank arms sideways. If they feel loose, tighten them with a crank wrench, or ask a mechanic.

Q is for Quick releases and bolts

• If your wheels have quick-release levers, they must be tight. A properly closed hub lever should leave a slight imprint on your palm when you close it.
• Point hub levers towards the back of the bicycle so they cannot catch on anything.
• Check that the brake quick-release is closed so the brakes work.
• Make sure the saddle, seat post and handlebar are tight and do not twist when you push them.

Then look and listen

• Spin each wheel. It should turn straight without rubbing the frame or brakes.
• Check the bell works, and your lights and reflectors are in place, especially if you ride at dusk or at night.
• Listen for rattles, scraping or squeaks when you ride the first few metres.

When to see a mechanic

If a brake feels spongy, a wheel wobbles, a gear keeps slipping or a part looks cracked, do not ride. Take it to a mechanic, and have a full service every few months, or after about every 500 km if you ride a lot.