Cycle Check Lists
It is important to make sure that all bikes are checked before they are used on a cycling event.
This can be achieved in two ways:
- firstly by sending check lists out as part of the event paperwork to get the parents to make sure they check their child's bike.
- secondly by holding a troop meeting where the bikes are inspected. This provides a secondary backup just in case the parents have not made adequate bike checks.
Checks need to make sure that:
- the bike is suitable for the activity ie not too small/big for them and the right type of bike. Riding a BMX bike on a 90 mile cycle ride is going to be challenging! Also if parts of the route are off road then a racing bike is very vulnerable to punctures.
- the bike is roadworthy. Typical problems are worn/bald tyres (leading to punctures), worn brake blocks (leading to accidents), gears that don't work (cycling in top gear all the way isn't fun!) and saddle height.
Also ideally they should have a bell and fittings for lights (which will be required if there is any chance of cycling at night or in really bad weather).
The two attached documents are provided as guidelines only. We don't formally sign off the bikes as checked as we aren't qualified bike mechanics.
- Bicycle check list (pdf) (Courtesy Suffolk County Council)
- Look after you bike check list (pdf)
