A Quick and Easy Bike Safety Check You Can Use Every Time You Ride
Nothing ruins a good ride faster than a preventable mechanical issue, or worse, an injury. The good news? You don’t need to be a mechanic to keep yourself (and your bike) safe. A quick pre-ride safety check takes just a couple of minutes and can save you a lot of frustration on the trail.
We like to call it the “ABC Quick Check.” Here’s how it works:
A = Air
Squeeze your tires, are they firm, not squishy?
Check for cuts, thorns, or worn tread.
Bonus: carry a mini pump or CO₂ cartridge just in case.
B = Brakes
Give both levers a quick squeeze. They should feel firm, not spongy.
Spin your wheels, do the brakes grab evenly?
Listen for rubbing that might mean your rotor or pads need a little adjustment.
C = Chain (and Cranks)
Spin your pedals backward, does your chain run smoothly, without grinding or skipping?
Check that your cranks are tight and not wobbly.
Wipe and lube your chain regularly to keep things running clean.
Quick = Quick Releases & Bolts
Make sure your wheels are securely fastened (through-axle or quick release).
Check that your stem and seat post bolts are snug, no twisting or slipping when you apply pressure.
Check = Final Look
Bounce the bike gently, listen for rattles or loose parts.
Make sure your helmet is snug and adjusted.
Do a quick scan: water, snacks, tools, layers… got everything you need?
Why It Matters
This whole process takes under two minutes, but it can prevent:
Flats from underinflated tires
Crashes from faulty brakes
Mid-ride mechanicals that leave you stranded
Think of it as your trailhead ritual, a way to respect both your bike and your body before you roll out.
Every ride is more fun (and way safer) when you know your bike is ready. Make the ABC Quick Check part of your routine, and you’ll spend less time fixing problems and more time flowing with confidence on the trail.
Ready to join us? Check out our event calendar here to see all upcoming events.
