Cycling Safety Tips

Safety Check

Every cyclist needs to know how to tell when their bicycle is unsafe to ride and needs repair. This section includes a basic bicycle safety checklist. (material copied and linked to from the Ontario Ministry of Transportation)

Basic Bicycle Safety Checklist:

Bolts/Quick release levers

• Check that bolts and/or quick release levers on the seat, seat post, handlebar stem and axles are tight

Headset

• Check that it turns freely and doesn't rattle

Brakes

• Check that the nuts on the brakes are tight. Brake pads should not touch the rims unless you are squeezing the brakes.
• Brake levers should stop at least 2.5 centimetres from the handlebars when the brakes are fully applied.

Axles

• Check bearings for looseness by shaking the wheel side to side. Make sure quick release levers are clamped tight

Shift Levers
 

• Derailleur levers should move easily only when shifting
• A screw or butterfly nut or similar device lets you adjust the movement of some types of shifter levers

Derailleur Movement

• On derailleur bikes, try shifting through all your gears and make sure your derailleur does not throw the chain off the sprockets

Tires

• Inflate to the recommended tire pressure as shown on the tire

Spokes

• Check for and replace loose, bent, or broken spokes

Wheels

• Make sure wheels are centred in the forks and not touching the brake blocks
• Check the rim for side-to-side wobbles and up and down hops by watching the wheel spin past the brakes or frame. More than half a centimetre of wobble is cause for concern

Coaster Brakes

• Check that the bolt holding the brake arm to the frame clip is tight

Helmet

• Make sure that your helmet meets safety standards (e.g. Snell, CSA, ANSI, ASTM, BSI, SAA, CPSC) and has not been damaged in a collision

Keep your bike secure

• Always carry a quality bicycle lock when riding
• lock your bike and quick release items like your wheels and seat to something solid