Cycling in Guernsey
The Department is committed to a policy of encouraging cycle use in the Islands by improving and extending the associated infrastructure and facilities. This page provides access to information on the following subjects:
1. "ABC Quick" Checks
Safe cycling begins with a safe and well-maintained bicycle. The following checks will take a minute or two and ensure that your bike is in safe working order.
A = Air
Make sure your tyres are inflated to the proper pressure before you ride, as tyres lose a little air each day on their own. Very often you cannot feel a tyre that has lost a little pressure. However, if you can squeeze the tyre then the air pressure is probably too low.
Remember to check your air pressure every couple of weeks!
B = Brakes
A quick way to check your brakes is to squeeze them to make sure the pads are not worn and that they will stop the wheel from moving without applying to much pressure. Have your brakes adjusted or replace the brake pads as soon as possible if either pad doesn’t touch the rim.
C = Chain
Make sure your chain is not dried out or rusty, as this can lead to sudden problems when riding. If the chain is dry, lubricate it by using a greaseless chain lubricant. Also check that it is not so worn or stretched that it hangs down. If it is worn, replace it. To check for stretching, take a ruler and check to see that the distances between the centres of link pins is exactly 12 inches. If the distance is more, the chain is stretched and should be replaced. If you find stiff links in your chain, you may be able to free them by carefully and slightly bending the chain sideways back and forth until the stiff link loosens up.
Quick = Quick ReleasesToday, the majority of bikes are fitted with quick release wheels and it is therefore important that you check your wheel quick release skewers to make sure they are closed and tight. Improperly fastened quick release skewers can allow your wheels to shift and rub against the frame of your bike, or even fall off!
Another important thing to remember is to wear your helmet!
Wearing your helmet
Your helmet is not technically part of your bike but should be thought of as a seatbelt: it must be fastened properly before you start your trip. Make sure you fit and adjust your helmet correctly so that it fits snugly and the straps and slides are properly adjusted.