Clean and lubricate chain

Clean and lubricate chain.

Inflate front and rear tires to desired pressure.

Check travel on brake levers, adjust cable at handlebar or at brake if needed. Brake should start to grip about 1/3 pull on lever. Remember, the LEFT is your front brake. However, if you live in the U.K., the left lever may control the REAR brake, as we are told by one of our viewers overseas!

Check all exposed allen heads for tightness, using a multiple size hex wrench or Alien tool. These can be found on various area of your bike (fork tubes, chainring bolts, seat, handlebars, mounting bolts, water bottle cages, etc). Use common sense and tighten whatever is loose.

Pick up front end and spin the wheel. Make sure the wheel is rotating freely and the rim or tire is not rubbing against the brake pad.

Pick up the rear end and spin the wheel. Make sure that the wheel doesn't seem to have a wobble in it, and make sure it spins freely.

Feel the spoke tension with your fingers on each wheel, or listed to their tone while holding a screwdriver, for example, against the spinning wheel. Any dead spokes should be tightened with the appropriate sized spoke wrench.

Get on your bike and pedal around your driveway or street before your ride. You should shift gears, pedal, and test the brakes.

If you ride clipless pedals, check your cleats for tightness and debris, and lube the mechanism in the pedal.

Check any lights, racks, handlebar bags, seat bags, or other items to make sure they are properly attached to the bike. Remove any trash or unused food from your bags, and check the gear you may be carrying in them.

Make sure you have the proper tools with you for the ride you are planning. Most riders carry some tools, or at the very least a pump and patch kit. The Wrecking Crew recommends taking MORE rather than less if your ride is of an extended duration or distance. Find out what tools your partner is carrying if you are riding with someone. Make sure at least one of you has the basics...

Remember to load up on appropriate fluids and carbohydrates before your epic ride. Also, carry enough food and fuel for your ride along with you so that you can replenish your "engine" throughout your ride. Never ride any duration on an empty stomach, but conversely don't have a huge meal first either!