Finally spring! Finally the bike time! Maybe you can even do your commute by bike. But before you get on the bike after winter, think about road safety. The German Road Safety Council (DVR) gives tips on what you should definitely check before you get back on the pedals.
This point should include a bike safety check.
Good visibility:
Let’s see you! At the front of the bike, a white headlight and a white reflector should be attached;
Wear a safety vest or reflective clothing;
Equip your bike with a red tail light and a red reflector;
Two yellow reflectors per pedal make you visible to the front and to the rear.
Also, have two yellow spoke reflectors or white reflective stripes on the spokes, rims or tires.
Check that all reflective and retro reflective elements are still in good shape and still perform their task well.
Effective brakes: Stop safely!
Two independent brakes are required. When you apply the brakes, the wheel should gently come to a stop.
If the levers of the handbrake are pulled through to the handlebar during your break test, the brake must be readjusted.
On the grooves of rim brakes, you can see if you need new coverings. If you are unsure, compare the current pads with new ones.
Disc brakes also need new brake pads from time to time.
Check also the cables of brakes and gearshift for their functionality! Are the outer tracks undamaged and laid without kinks? Can you steer without the cables protruding too far? Do the trains move easily in the cases or do they need lubricant?
Intact tires: Ensure the right grip!
Especially after the winter break, you should inflate the tires.
Examine the coats of the tires accurately: see cracks, small stones or tissue show through, replace the tire better.
Right bell: Make yourself heard!
The bell must be bright and effective.
By the way, horns or other devices that produce sounds are not allowed.
Perfect chain: Cleaning and greasing are necessary!
Maintain your bike chain with chain grease or oil. So it uses more slowly.
A chain change is necessary if the chain lengthens and jumps over the pinions.
Your safe bike: Check it with a holistic view!
For details, do not lose sight of the big picture and look at your bike completely: Examine cracks, chafe marks or deformations more closely! Do the saddle and the handlebars fit tightly without twisting? Do you notice loose parts? Are all screw connections tight?
A final test drive is part of the bike check!
Also, bicycle repair shops do inspections. If you are unable to carry out the above tests and repairs yourself, schedule an inspection by a professional in a timely manner. Because just as when changing tires, the car repair shops, and bike repair shops are usually fully booked at the beginning of the season.