PIt is important to inspect your mountain bike before each ride to avoid accidents along the way. To memorize the steps quickly and easily, use the "M" method. Each of the five points of the letter “M” represents a checkpoint when inspecting your bike. You will start at the rear wheel, move up to the seat post, down to the pedals, back up to the handlebars and down again to the front wheel. Learn to perform pre-driving checks by following the instructions below.
''M'' checkpoint #1
Attach the pump and make sure the tire is inflated to the recommended pressure range printed on the sidewall of the tire. The ideal tire pressure is an individual matter and may depend on a variety of factors, such as the ground of the ride and whether you are driving tubeless, but you should aim for the middle of the recommended PSI range and adjust from there.
Important tip: If you are using a tubeless system, we recommend that you add fresh sealant every 6 months.
Check that the wheel axle is screwed tightly enough and correctly positioned in case you have a QR (quick release) axle. Check the brake pads for wear, turn the wheel, and make sure it rotates freely through the brakes without rubbing. If the brake pads rub against the disc and you have checked that the wheel is fitted correctly, you will need to adjust the brake calipers slightly.
''M'' checkpoint #2
At the second checkpoint, pay attention to the seat and seat post. Rotate the seat left and right to make sure the seatpost clamp holds in place. If you have a submersible seat post, make sure it works by pressing the lever on the handlebars and pushing the seat down with your hand.
Then lift and lower the bike to the ground from ankle height and listen for any unusual sounds. This could mean that something on the bike is unscrewed or worn, and if a bolt is unscrewed, it must be fastened back, and if a part is worn, the bike will need to be serviced.
Important tip: If you have a submersible seatpost, it is a good idea to clean and lubricate it with multi-purpose silicone oil before each ride.
''M'' checkpoint #3
It is the turn of the drive and gear assembly for inspection. Turn both pedals to check for squeaks or similar sounds. Then grab them and rotate them from side to side to check if they have any "play" and that they are screwed hard enough.
Then turn the crank back and listen for any squeaking of the chain or gear system. Make sure the chain and sprockets, both front and rear, are as clean as possible. If the chain is dry to the touch, it is necessary to lubricate it with special oil.
Important tip: You have a choice of oils for dry and wet weather. Choose the one according to the weather you will be driving.
''M'' checkpoint #4
Then we focus on the handlebars. From ankle height, lower the front wheel to the ground and listen for any rattles or strange sounds, just like with the rear wheel. Grasp the front wheel with both feet and turn the handlebars left and right to make sure the handlebars are properly attached. Depress each brake separately and push the wheel back and forth to make sure the brakes are working properly.
Important tip: If you can pull the brake lever all the way to the handlebars, this is the need for new brake pads and /or ventilation
''M'' checkpoint #5
At the last point of the inspection, focus on the front wheel and repeat the process you did with the rear wheel. So check the tire pressure to see if the wheel axle is tight enough to tighten and fit properly, and turn the front wheel to make sure it rotates freely without rubbing against the discs.
That's it! Pretty simple, right? In addition to checking the bike before riding and basic home maintenance, such as inflating tires and lubricating chains, regular maintenance at your local bike service will allow components to run smoothly.