Before every ride, whether it’s a team practice, a race, or just a spin around the neighborhood, a quick bike check can make all the difference. That’s why NICA teaches every student-athlete to do the A-B-C-D-E check — a simple, five-step routine to make sure your bike is safe, functional, and ready for fun.
It only takes a minute or two, but it can prevent crashes, breakdowns, and a whole lot of trail-side stress. Let’s break it down 👇
🅰️ A is for Air
Check your tire pressure before every ride. Squeeze the tires — they should feel firm, not squishy. Low air can cause pinch flats, while overinflation can make the ride rough and slippery. If you have a pressure gauge, aim for your recommended PSI (usually listed on the tire’s sidewall).
Pro tip: Spin each wheel to make sure it’s true (not wobbly) and that nothing is rubbing the brakes.
🅱️ B is for Brakes
Give both brake levers a firm squeeze. They should feel solid, not soft or spongy.
- Pads should make contact with the rim or rotor evenly.
- Brake cables (or hydraulic lines) shouldn’t be frayed or leaking.
- Make sure your bike stops quickly and quietly.
If your brakes squeal or feel weak, it’s time for a quick tune-up before your next ride.
🅲 C is for Chain, Cranks & Cassette
Your drivetrain is the powerhouse of your bike — keep it clean and well-lubed!
- Spin your cranks and shift through your gears.
- Listen for grinding or skipping — both can signal a dirty or worn chain.
- Make sure the cranks spin smoothly and the pedals are tight.
Wipe off grime after each ride and add a few drops of chain lube when things get dry or squeaky.
🅳 D is for Drop Test
This is the fun one! Lift your bike a few inches off the ground and gently drop it. Listen closely — you want a solid thunk, not a rattle. If something sounds loose or clunky, give it a closer look or ask a coach or mechanic to inspect it.
🅴 E is for Everything Else
Do a quick top-to-bottom scan:
- Helmet snug and properly fitted ✅
- Wheels secure and quick releases tight ✅
- Handlebars straight and grips solid ✅
- Nothing rattling, rubbing, or flopping around ✅
This final once-over helps catch anything the earlier steps might have missed.
🚵♀️ Why It Matters
The ABCDE check isn’t just about preventing mechanical issues — it’s about building safe habits and self-awareness on the bike. Every NICA athlete learns it as part of our commitment to Safety, Respect, and Fun.
When every rider checks their bike before a ride, we spend less time fixing and more time riding!
✅ Quick Recap
| Letter | Stands For | What to Check |
|---|---|---|
| A | Air | Tire pressure, wheel spin |
| B | Brakes | Pads, levers, stopping power |
| C | Chain, Cranks, Cassette | Clean, lubed, smooth shifting |
| D | Drop Test | Listen for loose parts |
| E | Everything Else | Helmet, bolts, quick releases |
💚 Tarpon Coast Tip
Encourage your rider to do the ABCDE check every time they unload their bike before a ride. It’s quick, easy, and sets a great example of responsibility and trail safety.
See you on the trails — and don’t forget your ABCDEs! 🌴🚲
Tarpon Coast MTB Team 