A document with the word caa on it.

Mar 22, 2024

3 min. read

Get ready get your wheels moving with our helpful cycling preparation tips.

A: Air and tires  

Check tires for cracks, punctures or leaks and repair any damage.

B: Brakes and bells  

Test brakes and replace worn-down brake pads and frayed cables. And make sure your bike has a working bell or horn.

C: Chain

Clean, tighten and oil your chain to avoid stiffness or slack.

D: Drop test 

Lift your bike frame 10 centimetres from the ground and let it drop on its tires to ensure nothing is loose or rattling.

E: E-bike battery  

Fully charge— and check—your battery before heading out.

F: Frame  

Clean it and check for any dents or cracks.

G: Gears 

Test the gears, listen for any grinding sounds and replace any frayed cables.

H: Helmet 

Use the 2V1 rule. The helmet should rest on the forehead two fingers’ width above the eyebrows. Straps should sit flat, form a V under each ear and fit snugly with room to slide one finger between your chin and chin strap.

I: Illumination  

Some provinces require bikes to have a white light mounted on the front, white reflective tape on the front forks and red reflective tape on the rear forks. Riding at night? Make sure to have a red light or reflector on the back. Both front and rear lights should be turned on 30 minutes before sunset and 30 minutes after sunrise, or in low-visibility conditions.