The Importance of
a well-maintained Bike, before even contemplating a long-distance Ride,
- esp. one
with off-road sections, cannot be emphasised enough!
- If you are not
"Mechanically-minded" make sure you get your bike checked over in good
time before the Ride, at a reputable Bike Repair and Service Shop.
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All parts of
front and rear gear mechanisms, chain, brake lever pivots, front & rear
brake pivots, entry and exit points off all cables.
-
KEEP AWAY
FROM BRAKE BLOCKS!!
-
Check all
screws and bolts are tight and gears are shifting over properly.
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- You should
only be able to squeeze the brakes a centimetre or 2 before you feel a
response.
- The braking
should feel sharp and responsive, not dull and sluggish.
- Check
condition of Brake Blocks for wear and check they are not sticking on and
rubbing on the wheel rims.
- Check that
Cantilever braking system is lined up and not out of kilter and therefore
sticking on.
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-
Check they don't have any worn areas on tread or rim and the tread is adequate, esp. if you are planning
a long ride (esp. our c.w.c.r.)
-
Also, make sure you have the correct type of tyre and tread for the terrain you plan to cycle over. i.e. if you are going off-road onto rough-stuff then Racing or Road Bike tyres will not be adequate.
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Check manufacturers recommended pressure and inflate to this p.s.i.
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A rough guide is that you should only just be able to depress the tyre when fully inflated.
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Too hard and you will get a rough ride and the possibility of a blow out if the terrain is rough.
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Too soft and you will wear out the tyre more easily.
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