Spring check for your bike

Get your bike ready for spring - check, oil and get started now!

1. First clean, then check

Before you start the actual inspection, you should clean your bike thoroughly. Only a clean bike will show you whether there is any damage or wear.

The best way to remove coarse dirt is with a brush.
You can then wipe down the frame, rims and other components with warm water and a mild detergent (e.g. washing-up liquid). A sponge or cloth is completely sufficient for this.
For hard-to-reach areas, such as between the sprockets or on the gear mechanisms, you can use an old toothbrush.

While you are cleaning your bike, look out for scratches, cracks in the paintwork or loose parts. If you have a suspension seat post or a classic stem, you should check whether anything needs to be greased - but grease doesn't belong everywhere!

2. Check brakes - safety first!

Functioning brakes are the be-all and end-all for a safe journey. So check them carefully:

Are the brake pads worn? If so, replace them!
Are the brake cables still in good condition or frayed? Do they have caps on the ends? If not, you may need to replace the cables.
If you have disc brakes: Do the brake levers have a firm pressure point when you pull them or do they feel spongy? If the latter is the case, there could be air in the hydraulic line - you should have it bled in a workshop.
Also take a look at the brake pads: Are they still thick enough or do they need replacing?

3. Check the light - see and be seen better

Especially in spring, when the days are not quite as long, good lighting is important - and is also required by the German Road Traffic Licensing Regulations (StVZO). So check:

Are the front and rear lights working properly?
Are the reflectors clean and correctly fitted?
Is the headlight adjusted so that it does not dazzle others but still illuminates the road well?

If something is not working, it may be due to a loose connection, flat batteries or a defective dynamo.

4. Clean and oil the chain - but with the right oil!

The bike chain ensures a smooth drive, but needs to be well maintained. Here's how to do it right:

First remove coarse dirt, for example with a cloth or a special chain brush.
Then apply special chain oil (not WD-40 or household oil, which is unsuitable!).
After a short application time, wipe off any excess oil with a cloth - this will keep your trousers clean and the chain will attract less dirt.

5. Check the screws - but don't just start tightening them!

Check that all the bolts on the bike are properly seated, but be careful: simply tightening every bolt by feel can do more harm than good.

Important points are, for example, the bolts on the brakes, handlebars and seat post.
Many modern bikes have precise specifications on the torque to which the bolts must be tightened - you will need a torque spanner for this.
If you are unsure, have a specialist workshop take a look.

Check the nuts and bolts on the bike - are they all still tight?

6. Check wheels and tyres - for a smooth ride

A flat or damaged tyre can quickly spoil the fun. So check your tyres:

Rims: Are they running smoothly or are they wobbling? If so, you should visit a workshop.
Spokes: Are they damaged or loose? You can measure the tension with a special device or, with a little experience, check them by hand.
Tyres: Do they still have enough tread? Are there cracks or are there small stones or shards in the rubber? If so, change the tyre.
Air pressure: The correct tyre pressure is indicated on the tyre sidewall (usually as min. and max. pressure in bar). Make sure you have the right pump for your valve - there are three different types of valve.

With the right tyre pressure, your bike will not only be more comfortable to ride, but you will also save power when pedalling.

7. E-bike battery check - will it still hold out?

If you own a pedelec or e-bike, you should take a closer look at the battery and its connections:

Are the contacts clean or are there signs of corrosion? If so, clean them carefully with a dry cloth.
Have you stored the battery properly over the winter and charged it regularly? If not, it may no longer work.
If the battery can no longer be charged or displays errors, take it to a workshop - batteries are sensitive and should not be repaired by yourself.

Check the charge level of the e-bike battery

Conclusion: Everything checked? Then get on your bike!

Once you've gone through all the points and your bike is in top shape again, nothing stands in the way of a relaxed spring ride. So grab your bike, enjoy the first rays of sunshine and explore the great outdoors - safely and with a good feeling!