A well-maintained bike guarantees a comfortable and safe ride, whether you're cycling on Parisian bike paths or the roads of the Île-de-France region. A simple check before setting off can save you a lot of trouble, such as a breakdown discovered at the last minute. And for a ride of 50 to 100 km, or a multi-day getaway, a bike service is simply essential. In this article, the experts at Routes and Roads explain the key points to check, what you can handle yourself, and what's best left to a bike shop.
Summary:
Why check your bike before a ride
Components to review
When it's best to go to the workshop
What to put in your repair kit
Conclusion
Why check your bike before a ride
Over time and with mileage, bicycle components inevitably wear out: brake pads wear down, bolts can loosen, and play develops in key areas. These signs often go unnoticed on a short ride, but can become apparent on a longer trip or far from home. A chain that skips, a flat tire, or a damaged derailleur is enough to ruin a ride, especially outside the city or on the outskirts.
Checking your bike before setting off helps reduce the risk of breakdowns, improves safety, extends the lifespan of components, and simply allows you to ride with peace of mind. It's better to spend half an hour on it before leaving than to try to repair it on the side of the road.
Before setting off, take the time to thoroughly check your bike to avoid problems on the road.
Components to review
Brakes
Ensure the brake levers operate smoothly and that braking is precise and effective. For rim brakes, check the brake pad wear and cable tension. For disc brakes, check for leaks, rotor flatness, and brake pad condition.
Unwanted noises, a lack of braking power, or erratic behavior are warning signs: it's best to take your car to a workshop. Brake checks are especially important before driving in the rain, which is frequent in Paris and northern France.
Transmission and chain
Shifting gears should be smooth, without jerking or unusual noises. The chain itself must be clean and properly lubricated. If it's dry, lubricate it before setting off: this helps preserve the cassette and reduces friction while pedaling, especially on long rides.
Wheels and tires
Start by checking the tire pressure: too low, it increases the risk of a puncture; too high, it makes the ride harder and reduces traction. In the city and surrounding areas, with cobblestones, sidewalks, and rails, an overinflated tire quickly becomes noticeable.
Next, inspect the tires for cuts or cracks, especially if they are not new. Worn tread or tired sidewalls are signs that it's time to replace the tire. Make sure the wheels rotate straight, without any wobble or lateral wobble.
Bottom bracket, headset, pedals
To detect play in the steering, squeeze the brake lever and rock the bike back and forth. Any noticeable movement indicates play in the headset, often related to loose bearings. Check the pedals and crankset in the same way. Even slight play is a sign that shouldn't be ignored and warrants a visit to a mechanic.
Bolts and fasteners
Check the essential components: cranks, handlebars, stem, saddle, as well as the mounting points for bottle cages, racks, and fenders. This is especially important before riding on gravel paths, cobblestones, or rough roads, which are common in the Paris suburbs and rural areas.
When it's best to go to the workshop
Some operations require expertise. Precise derailleur adjustments, addressing clicking or noises in the hubs and bottom bracket, bleeding hydraulic brakes, truing wheels, or replacing the cassette and chain are easier to entrust to a workshop. And if your bike hasn't been serviced since last season, a complete check-up is highly recommended: the mechanics will inspect the bearings, cables, brakes, and the overall condition of the components. At Routes and Roads, experienced specialists service and prepare your bike quickly and efficiently for all your rides.
What to put in your repair kit
Even with a perfectly prepared bike, don't forget to bring a mini tool and spare parts kit; it could save you or help another cyclist out. For a short ride, plan for at least:
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a spare inner tube and a pump or CO₂ cartridge;
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tire levers and patches;
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a multi-tool with Allen keys and chain tool;
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a quick link in the chain;
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gloves and wipes.
Conclusion
Preparing your bike before a ride is an investment in safety, comfort, and the pleasure of riding. A simple check of the brakes, chain, and tires can prevent most problems on the road—whether in Paris, the suburbs, or outside the city.
If you have any doubts, consult a mechanic – prevention is better than cure on the side of the road. Routes and Roads workshop offers a quick and thorough check-up of your bike so it's ready for all your adventures!
