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Step 1
Remove any additional accessories from your bike, including racks, reflectors, mirrors, bells or lights.
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Step 2
Inspect the frame, fork and all components on the bike for cracks, or other signs of trouble or wear. Repair or replace any obvious problems.
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Step 3
Set your saddle height by placing your heel on your pedal (in your riding shoes) and raising the seat up so that your leg is straight on the bottom of the pedal stroke (6 O'clock position).
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Step 4
To set your saddle position, start by having it level with the ground and try it that way for a little while. If you are putting too much weight on your hands, raise the nose up a degree or two. If the nose is uncomfortable and you experience any numbness, lower the nose a degree or two. It may take a while to find the perfect saddle position for you.
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Step 5
Set your saddle's fore/aft position by moving it so that when you are seated, and your pedals are in the 3 O'clock / 9 O'clock position, your forward pedal spindle is in line with the small bump just below your kneecap.
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Step 6
Position your handlebars so that they are about two to five centimeters below the seat. Your handlebars should also be about shoulder width.
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Step 7
Find a stem that gives you a comfortable riding position. You want to have about a half an inch clearance between your knee and elbow when you are pedaling with your hands on the drops.
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Step 8
Angle your handlebars and brake levers so that you can comfortably reach the drops, the brakes and the brake hoods.
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Step 9
Check your tires for cuts, tears and imperfections. Your race day tires should be in perfect condition.
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Step 10
Inspect the wheels. Check the spoke tension and make sure that the hubs aren't too tight or too loose, and that the wheels spin freely.
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Step 11
Make sure that the cleats on your shoes and your clipless pedals are aligned and functioning properly.
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Step 12
Check to make sure that the chain is clean, lubed and not stretched. Chains stretch over time and this will lead to bad shifting and gear slippage.
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Step 13
Test the front and rear derailleurs to make sure that they are shifting properly and that the cables are capped and in good condition. Bad shifting is not only very frustrating, but it could blow the race for you.
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Step 14
Be sure that your brake cables, pads and levers are also in good condition and working well. You need to be able to slow down to go fast.
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Step 15
Turn your handlebars from side to side and see if there is any play in the headset or any grinding noises. Disassemble, clean, grease and adjust if necessary.
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Step 16
Check all bolts on the bicycle including chainring bolts, cable binder bolts, stem bolts and crank spindle bolts. Tighten any that need it.
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Step 17
Ride your bike after doing any adjustments or repairs. You'll want to feel comfortable and confident at the start line.
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Step 18
Make sure your bike is clean. New bar tape, a spotless drivetrain and clean frame are the proper way to show up at the start line.
