Whether you’ve parked your bike for winter activities or have been riding it hard through the mud, now is an ideal time to give it a comprehensive inspection to ensure it’s ready for spring.
Start by establishing a systematic approach to your inspection. You can categorize your checks by wheels, frame, suspension, brakes, drivetrain, and more, or simply work from the front to the back of the bike. Both methods are effective, as long as you make sure to cover everything.
Here are 10 key items to check before you hit the trails this spring.
Table of Contents
1. Tyres
Assess the remaining tread on your mountain bike tires and look for any knobs that may be peeling off. Examine the tires for small tears or thorns that could cause issues while riding.
It’s not unusual for tire casings to fail before the tread is fully worn down, so be sure to check for excessive sidewall wear, including abrasions and threads sticking out from the casings.
If you use tubeless tires, now is a great opportunity to add a scoop or two of your preferred sealant.
2. Wheels
Spin your wheels to check for any side-to-side wobbles or vertical hops, which could indicate they need some servicing.
Now’s also a good moment to ensure the wheels are spinning smoothly and that the hubs aren’t too loose or too tight. Give the spokes a quick squeeze to confirm none are loose.
Inspect the area where the nipples connect with the rim; hairline cracks here can quickly escalate into serious issues on the trail, potentially leaving you with a taco-shaped wheel and a long trek home.
If the wheel appears out of shape while spinning, you’ll need to true it. If you’re not comfortable doing that, take it to your favorite bike shop and have them put it in a jig for you.
3. Brakes
While inspecting your wheels, you likely enjoyed the pleasant silence as the disc brake rotors spun smoothly through the brake calipers. If you heard any noise, it might be time to adjust the brake caliper.
Additionally, brake rotors can get bent, leading to interference, so watch for any side-to-side wobble. This issue can easily be resolved with an adjustable wrench or rotor alignment tool, a quiet workspace, and a gentle adjustment of the rotor.
Don’t forget to check the disc brake pads for excessive wear and replace them if necessary. It’s also important to ensure they aren’t contaminated, as this can reduce braking efficiency.
4. Suspension
Examine the fork and stanchions for any nicks or scratches. Use a clean cloth to remove any dirt from the fork seals, and check for cracks or excessive fluid buildup—both of which indicate that your fork might need a rebuild.
Once everything looks good, cycle the fork and rear suspension a few times before checking your sag settings and adjusting the air pressure as needed.
5. Cockpit
The stem, handlebar, and seatpost are often the unsung heroes of a mountain bike. While they don’t require frequent adjustments, it’s still essential to check them periodically for any signs of damage.
Start by removing your seatpost and reapplying grease to the seat tube, or use carbon paste if your frame is made of carbon. Next, take off the handlebar and look for signs of over-clamping, such as deep gouges that could pose a risk of failure later.
When you’re ready to reinstall the handlebar, ensure the stem is aligned properly and that the headset is adjusted correctly—there should be no play or binding when you move the handlebars back and forth. Adjust the brakes and shifters to your preference, and remember to tighten everything to the recommended torque specifications from the manufacturers.
6. Shift and brake lines
Inspect the derailleur housing for any signs of wear, especially at the points where the cables connect to the frame. It’s common for the wires inside the plastic housing to pull through the ferrules at the end.
If you notice any fraying in your cables, it will be challenging to adjust the rear derailleur, so replacing them is a good idea.
You should follow a similar process for checking the brake and dropper post cables. Trace the cables from the levers to the calipers, looking for wear and scuff marks where the cable may have rubbed against the frame. If you spot any damage to the hose, replacing it could help prevent a ride-ending issue.
7. Frame
Once you’ve checked the shift and brake lines for wear, it’s wise to turn your attention to the frame itself.
Excessive rubbing of brake and shifter cable housing against the frame can wear through steel, carbon, or aluminum, but this can be easily prevented with a few strips of protective tape to safeguard your bike.
Look for any signs of damage from rock strikes, especially on the down tube and chainstays.
If you have a full-suspension bike, make sure to inspect the suspension pivots and shock bushings for any play, and torque everything to the manufacturer’s recommended specifications.
8. Drivetrain
Drivetrains endure a lot of wear and tear during winter, as grit and moisture can take a toll on their components, making spring an ideal time for replacements.
As you shift through the gears, listen for any popping or skipping from the rear cassette when you’re not actively moving the shift levers; if you hear any, a simple adjustment to the derailleur may do the trick.
Check the chainring and cassette teeth for any bends or breaks. Remember, modern components often feature various tooth shapes to help guide the chain smoothly from cog to cog.
Use a chain-checker tool to assess wear on the chain, and replace it as necessary to prevent faster wear on the drivetrain components.
Finally, give your drivetrain a thorough degreasing to remove the winter grime, and follow up by lubricating your chain.
9. Frame fasteners
Although you may have already inspected your brakes, cockpit, frame, and drivetrain for loose nuts and bolts, it is important to emphasize the significance of this task.
If you intend to perform maintenance on your bike independently, acquiring a torque wrench can prove to be a valuable investment.
While many components are labeled with the specified torque near the bolt, it is advisable to make a list of any components that lack this information. It is crucial to meticulously check the bolts securing essential parts like the stem and handlebar to ensure your safety.
For detailed insights into various torque wrench options, we recommend checking out our comprehensive buyer’s guide on the best torque wrenches.
10. Prep your gear
Lastly, dedicate a few moments to evaluating the equipment that links you to your bike.
Ensure that the buckles on your shoes are in optimal condition and that your cleats are securely fastened.
Thoroughly inspect your helmet for any signs of damage, as even a minor crack could indicate the need for a replacement.
As spring brings warmer weather, it may be appropriate to reevaluate your cycling attire. Consider swapping out waterproof trousers for waterproof shorts, acknowledging the transitional season before the arrival of summer.
If you utilize a hydration pack, take the opportunity to clean and organize its contents. Address any cleaning requirements for the bladder, dispose of energy bar wrappers, and discard any punctured tubes lingering at the bottom of your bag during a comprehensive spring cleaning session.
Don’t forget to assess your tools as well. Verify the functionality of your shock pump and mini pump. If you carry a first-aid kit, replenish any items that were used but not replaced during the previous season.
Through my blog, I aim to share insights on the dedication, care, and attention cycling demands, whether you’re tackling a mountain pass, speeding along a smooth road, or refining your bike’s setup. My mission is to provide well-researched, practical guidance that makes cycling more enjoyable, safer, and accessible for everyone with a passion for two wheels.
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