I have been leading the Trek Women Road Cycling Clinic’s for the past 4 years, loving every minute! It has been a great opportunity to get more women into the sport of cycling in a safe, social and educational manner. One common theme among women new to the sport, is our lacking knowledge of bike mechanics (I am still working on it!). I have had participants show up to ride with 35 psi in a road tire (causing you a very strenuous and sluggish ride while your friends cruise by!), brake pads rubbing on the rubber (jeopardizing braking power that will eventually cause a hole and you will flat!), gunky black chains (“a clean bike is a happy” ~ say smart cyclists globally), and quick releases I could open with my pinky finger (your wheel may fall off!).

Although my PRE-RIDE ABC & Q CHECK will absolutely not suffice as a full tune-up, it will assist with catching your next mechanical issue before your ride.

At the beginning of every riding season, I would highly recommend giving your bike a full tune-up, which should include:

• Brake cleaning and adjustment (includes brake pad resurfacing as needed)
• True wheels
• Adjust headset, bottom bracket and hubs
• Thoroughly clean drivetrain
• Re-install, lubricate and adjust derailleurs and chain (cable replacement recommended)
• Wipe down frame, fork and wheels

For my season opener tune-up, I confidently make use of the pros at my local bike shop: Trek Store Barrie.

VIDEO RECAP: PRE-RIDE ABC & Q CHECK

• A – is for AIR
• B – is for BRAKES
• C – is for CHAIN
• Q – is for QUICK RELEASE

Looking forward to seeing you rubber side down!