edinburgh rc cycling club

Run preparation - Riding in a group has many advantages but it also places certain responsibilities on each rider. Punctures, mechanicals etc, whilst often bad luck, can be less of a trial if certain precautions are taken before the run :

Make sure your bike is safe – check brakes, wheels, rims and steering. Also ensure that nothing is loose (especially mudguards) or liable to fall off. A lubricated chain etc is also a good idea.

Check your tyres - worn tyres are the single biggest preventable cause of punctures. Multiple punctures, apart from being a pain, won’t endear you to other riders waiting for you on a cold day !

Make sure you know how to fix a puncture – practice beforehand if you need to.

EQUIPMENT CHECKLIST

You are likely to need the following equipment:

• An appropriately serviced bike
• At least one, but preferably two, spare inner tubes.
• A working pump
• Puncture repair kit - for those awful days when two tubes aren't enough.
• Tyre levers - 2/3
• A multi tool - to adjust gears etc
• Other optional tools eg chain breaker
• Even in winter hydration is important - carry a water bottle.
• Personal first aid - plasters, antiseptic wipes etc
• Money - for cafe stop
• Waterproof
• Carbohydrate drink
• Solid carbohydrate source eg banana, raisins, jelly babies