Whats needed to get a bike on the road?

311

I've a couple of bikes that are fairly new ,but I havent been on them for about 6 months.
Is there anything I should be weary of before I start using them again ,chain ,tires ,gears ?? oiling ?

Ones a specialized sirrus sport and the other is a specialized hard rock.

Thanks

Morgan

Pump the tyres, make sure they're not punctured.
If there are quick releases on the wheels make sure they're properly closed.
Check the chain isn't rusted , if it is try and clean/oil it.
Check the handebars/stem aren't loose.
Give it a shake and make sure nothings rattling.

That'll get you going anyway.

311

Thanks ,wasn't sure if the bottom brackets needed greasing or the cables needed tightening

Brian.

Wez

I find taking the cables out of their hoses and greasing them up is something very worthwhile doing. Makes them work very smoothly and isn't a hard job to do. You can use a pliers to get the cap off the end of the cable to pull it back through and get new ones in a bike shop for free if you're polite!

311

Never thought of greasing the cable ,
i'm fairly heavy and I cycle hard ,i'd be afraid the bottom bracket would be dry. But I wasn't sure about it.

Morgan

The bottom bracket is a sealed unit so it doesn't require lubrication.

I should have mentioned to check your brakes too!

If the bikes have been stored inside everything should be fine - if outside you'll have to do a bit more work.

311

coolaboola ,both bikes are in the house.

thanks again.

Brian.