Bicycle Basics & Helmet Safety

Cycling with a tuned-up bicycle and wearing a properly fitted helmet is key to having a safe and enjoyable bike ride. Learn more about the basic bicycle parts, the ABC's of bike maintenance and helmets

Bicycle Parts

Seat
Seatpost
Reflector (rear)
Fender
Rear Brakes
Cog Set
Reflector
Spokes
Rear Derailleur
Rim
Tire
Chain
Bottom Bracket
Pedal
Reflector
Valve
Hub
Fork
Brake Pads
Front Brakes
Fender
Handset
Brake Levers
Shifters
Bell
Handlebars
Front Light
Stem
Top Tube
Seat Tube
Downtube
Chain Rings
Crank Arm

It is required by law that your bicycle is equipped with:

Bell or horn in good working order
A front/rear light or reflector if you ride between half and hour before sunset and half an hour after sunrise
Reflective tape on the front and rear forks

Consider these optional equipment:

Safety flag(s) to increase visibility
Rear view mirror
Reflective clothing
Basket to keep hands free for steering

Bicycle Maintenance and Care

The ABC's of bicycle maintenance and care

A is for air

Inflate tires to the rated pressure as indicated on the sidewall of the tire
Bicycle tires need to be re-inflated more often than car tires
Check for damage to tire tread and sidewall; replace tire if worn

B is for Brakes, Bar & Bell

Rotate wheels to check that nothing is rubbing
Inspect brake pads; replace if there is less than 6mm of pad left
Check adjustments of brake levers; when applied, there should be at least 25mm between each lever and the handlebar

C is for Chain and Crank

Chain should be clean, lubricated and quiet
If chain skips while riding, a new chain, a new cassette or an adjustment may be needed
Make sure crank bolts are tight

Carry a small bicycle repair kit handy in case of emergency.

The repair kit is recommended to include:

Bicycle tire pump
Puncture repair kit
Lightweight wrenches
Plastic tape
Tire levelers/irons
Hex keys
Spare bicycle inner tubs
Snap-on chain length

Helmets

By law, cyclists under 18 must wear an approved bicycle helmet.

Helmets are not required for adults over 18; but a helmet is strongly recommended for all riders to greatly reduce risk of permanent injury or death in the event of a fall or collision.

Follow the 2-V-1 RULE to Make Sure Helmet Fits Properly