CLICK HERE TO TRANSLATE THIS PAGE
YOUR NEW BIKE - GETTING STARTED!
If you have just received a free bike from us, you will receive a call from our friendly team within 7 days to see how you are doing, but it is essential that you read the information below - it has everything you need to know to get cycling safely...
We recommend you read and watch everything on this page, but you can also choose the topic you're most interested in by clicking the buttons below:
CLICK HERE TO TRANSLATE THIS PAGE
-
I've just received my bike, what happens next?
Your new bike is yours to keep. We will now call you to talk you through the next steps - basic adjustments, how to use and fit your accessories and cycling safety. Read the following sections as you wait for our call.
-
What is included with my bike?
Along with your bike, you should also have received a pack of accessories and tools. This includes:
- Helmet - see section on how to make basic adjustments
- Lock - see section on how to lock your bike
- Lights - you must use these whenever it is dark, it is the law
- Gloves - to keep your hands warm when riding
- Hat - to keep your head warm when riding
- Hi-Visibility Vest - wear this over your clothes to keep you visible on the road
- Allen Key - see section on basic adjustments
- Spanner - see section on basic adjustments
- Screw Driver - see section on basic adjustments
BASIC ADJUSTMENTS
-
How do I adjust my helmet?
We will talk you through this on the phone, you do not need any tools to do this. -
Here is an instructional video which may help to demonstrate what we mean when we call you:
-
How do I adjust my saddle so that I can cycle comfortably?
We will talk you through this on the phone, you may need to use the allen key, spanner tools or screw driver.
Here is an instructional video which may help to demonstrate what we mean when we call you:
-
How do I adjust my handlebars so that I can cycle comfortably?
We will talk you through this on the phone, you may need to use the allen key, spanner tools or screw driver.
Here is an instructional video which may help to demonstrate what we mean when we call you:
HOW TO LOCK YOUR BIKE
- Bike thefts can be very common in the UK so it is very important that you lock your bike every time you leave it, even for 30 seconds to go to a shop.
If you can, bring your bike indoors overnight and take your bike lock with you on every ride in case you need it.
- Follow the instructions and diagrams below to learn how to use your bike lock properly.
-
Does your bike have Quick Release wheels?
Quick Release
|
Non-Quick Release
|
How to lock a bike with quick release wheels...
How to lock a bike without quick release wheels...
| Use your U-lock to secure the frame and front wheel together |
CYCLE TRAINING VIDEOS
-
The Bike Project has created a series of short instructional training videos so you can cycle safely in your area.
-
Please watch all of them in turn.
YOUR FIRST RIDE!
Planning your journey
You should plan your journey before setting off, you can use apps like Google Maps. Planning your journey will make it less stressful and help you work out how long the journey will take by bike. Wear comfortable clothing and shoes which cover your toes. Remember to take everything that you need with you including water, your helmet, lock, lights and a fully charged mobile phone.
Cycling Safely
Be observant and aware of your surroundings. Respect other road users and follow the highway code for cyclists at all times.
Stay behind large vehicles such as lorries and buses. Do not try to overtake or squeeze through tight spaces in traffic.
You must stop at every red light, this is the law.
Do not cycle on the pavement unless it is permitted to do so, otherwise you can be fined.
Remember, if you are lost, or somewhere new, busy or just feel unsure, pull over to the side of the road and walk your bike to a quieter road or area.
MAINTENANCE AND REPAIRS
-
Regular 'ABCD' check...
-
AIR - check you have enough air in the tyres by pinching your tyre on both sides.
It should feel firm like an apple.
-
BRAKES - check both brakes are working well. Check your front brake by holding your bike by the handlebars, pushing it forward and squeezing the brakes.
Check your rear brake by rolling your bike backwards and then squeezing your brakes.
-
CHAIN - is your chain moving freely? Can you move your pedals backwards and the chain turns?
Your chain should also be oiled, silver grey or black. It should not look rusty.
-
DIRECTION - handlebars control the direction of the bike. Check your stem is tight and facing the same direction as your front wheel.
Squeeze your front tyre between your feet, and your wheels between your knees. Then hold the handlebars to see if you can move them - they shouldn't move!
-
Where can I pump my tyres?
Cycle shops are an essential business and therefore most are still open despite the restrictions in place. Find out where your nearest bike shop is, ring to see if they are still open and ask if you can come in to use a bike pump to ensure that your tyres are fully inflated. They should not normally charge you for this. -
Help my bike is broken!
We offer lifetime repairs and replacements on all the bikes we donate but at the moment our workshop is closed to the public for repairs. Instead, please call us and we will try and give you advice and support on the phone and work out the next steps to get you cycling again.
OTHER ACTIVITIES
-
Stay connected
We have launched Cyber Cyclists, a programme of online activities to keep people connected, supported and active during this time. If you would like to be added to this programme please get in touch via the contact details below. -
Further Resources
If you found the information on this page useful we have further resources for new cyclists.
CONTACT US FOR FURTHER HELP
-
We are here for you!
Call: 0207 733 8098 Email info@thebikeproject.co.uk for advice and support during this time. We aim to get back to you as soon as we can.