Cruiser Ride Checklist

Cruiser Ride Checklist

Hello Bike People,
Here's a list of stuff to help you prepare for a night of bike fun with friends on the streets. These are just suggestions to help you have a good time with the least amount of problems. Murphy's Law can be minimized on a Cruiser Ride if you prepare!
DJ Jojo
Cruiser Ride Checklist/Guidelines

1. Your Bike
a. A is for air
• Inflate tires to rated pressure as listed on the sidewall of the tire
• Use a pressure gauge to insure proper pressure
• Check for damage to tire tread and sidewall; replace if damaged
b. B is for brakes
• Inspect pads for wear; replace if there is less than ¼" of pad left
• Check pad adjustment; make sure they do not rub tire or dive into spokes
• Check brake level travel; at least 1" between bar and lever when applied
c. C is for cranks, chain and cassette
• Make sure that your crank bolts are tight; lube the threads only, nothing else
• Check your chain for wear; 12 links should measure no more than 12 1/8 inches
• If your chain skips on your cassette, you might need a new one or just an adjustment
d. Quick is for quick releases
• Hubs need to be tight in the frame; your quick release should engage at 90°
• Your hub quick release should point back to insure that nothing catches on it
• Inspect brake quick releases to insure that they have been re-engaged
e. Check is for check it over
• Take a quick ride to check if derailleurs and brakes are working properly
• Inspect the bike for loose or broken parts; tighten, replace or fix them
• Pay extra attention to your bike during the first few miles of the ride
2. Supplies-
a. Patch kit, pump, multi tool, tire levers, pedal wrench, and wheel nut wrench. These items are invaluable for roadside repairs.
b. Helmet, gloves, comfortable layered clothing, footwear, bandana (makes helmets more comfortable and absorbs sweat), hair tie for long hair.
c. Sunglasses/eyeglasses
d. Lip balm, sunscreen

3. Navigation-Directions list, map of the local ride area, or if you want a GPS system (this can cut some of the fun out of random turns and twists in an urban exploration ride.)

4. Communication-Mobile phone, walkie talkies- These can be quicker than cellular phones in contacting other riders for fast easy communication.

5. Safety- Lights (front and rear) should be in working order with fresh batteries. First Aid Kit- This is the type of item that is often neglected. My rule is = "Its better to have it and not need it, than need it and not have it."

6. Food-Snacks to share, an energy bar, Cliff bar, fresh fruit is always good, vegetables, nuts, trail mix, goodies of your choice.

7. Hydration- WATER lots of it-I drink a lot of water when riding, so I fill my camelpak up and that pretty much covers me for the ride. You can also carry a couple water bottles in your frame cages or in a pack. You won't regret it. Gatorade or other sports drinks are good too. Although some riders bring alcoholic drinks on party/cruiser rides, I STRONGLY discourage it #1 its dangerous, #2 its a bad representation of bicycle culture, #3 alcohol is a diuretic and dehydrates your system, making your more thirsty, and #4 ITS ILLEGAL!!

8. Camera- A great way to record and share your experiences! Shoot pics of riders, bikes, and the places your go!