Handlebars, stem, headset and cranks
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Rachel knew she was forgetting something... Photo: Timothy Armes
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The condition of your brakes is one of the most important things about your bike
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Don't get distracted by how pretty your handlebar tape is. Although it is nice...
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Are your cleats worn?
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Amazingly, the BBC weather app recognises the TWC office... ahem.
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Clapham to the Le Tour De France wine shop is our most-ridden, obviously.
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Handlebars, stem, headset and cranks
Tight is right
Check that all your main bits are totally secure on your bike.
There should be no movement in your cranks.
Check for movement in the headset bearings by pulling the front brake and rocking the bike back and forth.
How are the stem bolts and handlebars? If there’s any movement, tighten.
In all of these cases, tighten things if you feel confident. But be careful of more advanced fixes when it comes to your bottom bracket and your headset. Always seek professional advice: never say “it’ll be fine”.