first crash - how to assess damage to bike

Triceratops Ballet

I had my first spill off the bike the other day, (bike v bike) my bike looks ok, but I haven't been back on it yet, any suggestions of what to look for in terms of damage/ weak points?
The impact was my front wheel on his rear wheel, (me going straight and him doing a u turn)

godtabh

What is the bike made off?

Triceratops Ballet

sorry should have included that it's an aluminium road bike

this one

manwithaplan

Not too much to check really that wouldn't be immediately apparent. Make sure your bars and shifters are straight, your front wheel is true (inc. no bent/broken spokes) and your brakes are centred. Make sure mudguards, racks etc are secure. Pull your brakes and make sure they are applying and releasing properly. Ride the bike and go up and down through the gears, including front shifting. If it's not smooth, check your derailleurs to make sure they are not bent. Any minor issues can be sorted through adjustment.

You could also have a look at your front forks to make sure they're OK and maybe pull your front brakes and rock the bike forward and back to make sure your headset hasn't loosened.

Obviously, if you're really worried, take it to your LBS. If it was me, I'd probably just ride it!

Zyzz

Im afraid the bike is a complete write off so only option is to buy a new one.

godtabh

Zyzz wrote: »

Im afraid the bike is a complete write off so only option is to buy a new one.

I'd recommend two incase something happens to the first one

outfox

dottie_lottie wrote: »

(me going straight and him doing a u turn)

What the hell was he up to?

'68 Fastback

Have a look at the area where your handlebar is clamped into your stem. If your bar took a knock it might have stressed the clamping area. If you can, take the bar out and check if there are any dents or signs of impact.

I learned this lesson the hard way!