Renting a bicycle is a practical way to get a feel of and familiarize yourself with a new bike you’re interested in.
However, there are some factors to consider before lifting your feet off the ground to make sure your bike is safe.
The basics of bike safety and its rules are essential information for both experienced and novice cyclists. Before going for a ride, inspect your bike first. Some of these precautions should be taken before every trip, while others can be taken regularly.
If you haven’t used your bike in a while, you can have it tuned up with these bicycle safety tips in mind.
Getting Comfortable With Bike Pre-Ride Safety Checks
To ensure that you make the most out of your bike rental, your bicycle has to be comfortable and safe to ride.
Here are some pre-ride bicycle safety tips for you to apply:
1. Check Your Tire Pressure
First, check the tire’s sidewall for the recommended tire pressure. This is measured in pounds per square inch (PSI) and is usually written as a range (e.g., 30 to 35 PSI).
Another way to observe the tire pressure is by pressing down on the top of the wheel and observing the bounce and rigidity against the ground. Although this is usually an inaccurate measure, it does help you know what your tires should feel like when properly inflated.
When riding your bike on paved trails, the streets, or smooth dirt trails, you may want to use the maximum pressure on the recommended range. If you’ll take your bike on rough off-road trails, such as in mountain biking, it’s preferable to use as little pressure as possible without making your bike unusable to allow it to conform to the erratic paths.
When checking the tire pressure, look for cracks or excessive tire wear. If you notice excessive wear, damages, or cuts on the tread or sidewall after conducting a safety check, it’s best to replace the wheel.
Before riding, make sure you bring your pump and patch kit with you. You can use the air gauge if the current pressure is lower than optimal. Operate the pump until you reach your desired pressure.
2. Check Your Wheel Quick Releases
If applicable, make sure your quick-release levers and thru-axles — which attach your wheels to the bike frame — are properly fastened. After keeping your wheels in place, make sure the levers are closed with the right amount of tension. If you’re not familiar with quick-release levers, consult a qualified bicycle mechanic.
3. Test Your Brakes
Brakes are an essential part of bike safety. To ensure that they are working properly, grasp the front brake (left-hand) and rear brake (right-hand) firmly. If even one doesn’t work, do not ride the bike and have the brakes checked by a qualified mechanic.
4. Inspect Your Chain
Check your bike safety gear and chains for rust. Keeping them well-lubricated ensures that they shift easily. If there is only minimal surface rust present, then you can handle it with cleaning and re-lubrication. If your chains are completely covered with rust, replace them.
Spin the crank backward, and see if your chains move with ease over the cogs without any binding, kinking, or skipping. Make sure that it also moves quietly without grinding or squealing. Otherwise, clean and lubricate your chains. Do the same if it is covered with big chunks of grease or grime. If you notice the chain is worn, replace it immediately.
5. Adjust Your Bike Frame and Headset
Inspect your bike for cracks in its frame and a loose headset. When checking the frame, stand over the bike with the front wheel between your legs. Hold the handlebar firmly, and try to turn the handlebar while keeping the wheel in place with your legs. If the handlebar is loose and turns, do not go riding.
To check the headset — or the set of ball bearings inside the bike’s head-tube — and make sure they are appropriately properly, grab the front brake lever and move the bike forward and back. While doing so, hold onto the outside of your bearing areas or the top and bottom parts of your frame’s head-tube. If you feel any movement in the bearings, have them adjusted by a qualified bicycle mechanic.
6. Set Your Preferred Bike Seat Height and Positioning
Features like your bike safety lights and saddles are adjusted based on individual qualities and personal preferences.
Make sure that your saddle is positioned at the right height for easy pedaling, as this is essential for your knees. As your leg extends, your knee must also be slightly bent. Also, your knee should be lifted directly above the center of your front pedal if your feet are parallel to the ground.
When renting a bike, you can ask to have the saddle adjusted according to your measurements. Note, however, that this will not fit perfectly. All you can do is aim for close measurement.
Ready To Take Your Bike for a Ride?
Bike safety is always a priority.
To get the most comfort and fun from quality bikes, visit our bike charter at Island Marine Rentals. Also, be sure to check out our boat rentals in Indian Rocks Beach, FL. For inquiries, contact us today!
