How to Inspect Your Bike After a Crash

Some bicyclists shave their legs in case of crashes, some show off their cuts and bruises, some like a good crash and anyone that has ever been on a bike has crashed at some point. After doctoring yourself, check your bike before riding away from the scene of the accident.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Lift the front end of your bike and spin the front wheel. Look to see that the wheel has no wobble and is not rubbing against your brakes.
2. Adjust the brakes if the wheel is slightly out of tune and get the wheel fixed when you get home.
3. Lift the back of the bike and spin the rear wheel to check if it is still tuned.
4. Make sure your handlebars have not repositioned themselves in the fall. If they are twisted, use an allen wrench on the headset to reset the handlebars.
5. Check that your chain is still on the front and back chainrings. If it has slipped off, grab the chain and place it back on a chainring.
6. Look to see if both tires are full of air.
7. Readjust your bike seat if it is askew.
8. Ride your bike slowly at first, listening and feeling for any out of tune parts.

Tips & Warnings

• If your bike has really been through the blender, fix it up enough to ride home and then repair it where you have space and the correct tools.
• Cycling is a physically challenging sport that could result in serious injury. We recommend that you seek the proper equipment and training before undertaking this activity.