Family Bikes After Winter Storage: What to Check

The first warm weekend of spring and everyone wants to go for a bike ride. Before you set off, here's a quick check for each bike in the family — from the adult bikes to the smallest kids' bike.

Every bike: the five essentials

• Inflate tyres: Winter storage deflates tyres. Inflate to the correct pressure before riding — it's on the tyre sidewall.
• Squeeze both brakes: They should feel firm and grip before reaching the bar. If soft or weak, don't ride it.
• Spin both wheels: Check for any side-to-side wobble or brake rub.
• Lube the chain: A dry chain after winter storage needs lubrication before riding.
• Check the saddle and bars are tight: Nothing loose or rotating.

Adult bikes: additional checks

• Shift through all gears — cables often need adjustment after winter
• Check chain wear with a chain checker if you have one
• Inspect tyre sidewalls for winter cracking
• Check wheel bearings by rocking the rim side to side

Children's bikes: extra attention needed

• Brake test more carefully — children's brakes deteriorate faster
• Check saddle height — children grow over winter. The saddle that fitted in autumn may need raising by 2–3cm.
• Check handlebar and saddle clamp bolts are tight
• Check helmet still fits — heads grow too

When to get professional help

If multiple bikes need attention, a mobile mechanic can service all of them in a single home visit. We carry the tools and common parts to sort most spring issues on the spot — typically completing a family set of 3–4 bikes in one visit.