There is a whole host of benefits your child will gain when it comes to cycling to school. It encourages independence, helps prevent childhood obesity and it supports healthy bones.
Getting your child’s bike ready for the new school year is an excellent way to ensure safety and enjoyment while riding their bike to school.
Our team in the workshop give their top tips to make sure your child’s bike is ready for the new school year.
Check The Tires & Wheels
- Inflate the tires to the recommended pressure. You can find all this information on the sidewall of the tire. Properly inflated tires provide better control and a smoother ride.
- Check the tires for any cracks, bulges, or excessive wear. Replace them if needed.
- Spin the wheels to check for wobbling or misalignment. If know how to adjust the spooks or ask a member of our workshop for help/advice
Inspect the Brakes
- Test both the front and rear brakes to ensure they engage smoothly and stop the bike effectively.
- Check brake pads for wear. If your child has rim brakes, there will be a wear indicator on the brake pad. Once that disappears then it’s time to change them. If your child’s bike has disc brakes, the pads usually start out with about 3-4mm of compound [on the pad]. They need to be replaced when there’s about 1mm left. Disc brakes generally stop working so well around this time. A general rule, when your brakes stop working so well – for example when you’re pulling the lever almost against the handlebar to stop – check them and see if they need to be change.
Check the Chain & Drivetrain
- Inspect the chain. If the chain looks dirty, clean it by using chain degreaser. Dry it off and lubricate it using a bike-specific lubricant. A well lubricated chain improves performance and reduces wear.
- Ensure the chain is properly tensioned and moves smoothly through the gears. If the gears are not shifting smoothly or accurately, you may need to adjust the derailleur. Again, our helpful workshop team are on hand to help you.
Evaluate the Frame & Components.
- Inspect the frame for any cracks, dents, or damage. A sturdy frame is crucial for safety.
- Tighten any loose bolts or screws, such as those on the handlebars, saddle, and pedals. Make sure the handlebars are straight and secure.
- Check the pedals spin freely and are securely attached. Also check the crankset for any wobbling or play.
Examine the Saddle & Seatpost.
- Your child may have grown since they last rode their bike so check the saddle height to ensure proper leg extension and a comfortable riding position. When it comes to sizing your child for a bicycle more information can be found HERE
- Make sure the saddle is straight and secure.
Safety Check
- Ensure that your child is wearing a properly fitted helmet. Replace helmets that have experience an impact or are old and worn. Advice on when to change your helmet and what to look out for when buying a helmet can be found HERE.
- Teach your child basic road safety rules, such as looking both ways before crossing and what hand signals to use. Cycling Ireland has a wealth of resources which can help you your child learn the basics. They can be found HERE.
And Finally
- We strongly advice to take the bike out for a short test ride to ensure that the bike is functioning smoothly and there are no unexpected issues on the first morning back
- We also suggest you to create a maintenance schedule to regularly check the bike throughout the school year.
By following these tips, you can help ensure your child’s bike is safe and ready for the a new school year of cycling adventures.
Our workshop is Shimano certified and Cytech approved. For more information about our workshop, please click HERE
