Weekly Training Tip

Before each bike ride, you can save yourself some grief by just taking a few seconds to do this 5-point safety check of your bike!

These important checks of the bike could make a big difference between having an enjoyable ride, or not:

1. Wheels – Verify that your wheel skewers (quick releases) are tight.

2. Tires - Check your tires for proper tire pressure.  Any tire can loose air pressure – even over night.  If the tire pressure is low, use your tire pump to inflate it to proper pressure.

3. Handlebars – Apply a firm twisting motion (or side-to-side pressure) to your handlebars.   If they move or rotate, tighten the headset and/or stem or take your bike to the bike shop before riding.

Proper chain lubrication is essential to the ongoing operation of your bicycles.  How often you lube your chain depends on a variety of factors ranging from mileage, to weather, to road conditions.  One thing remains clear, a clean chain is a happy chain.  We suggest you clean and lube your chain after you ride.  This gives the lubricant a chance to settle into the pins and rollers.  Also make sure you dry the outer links so they resist attracting dirt and grime.  Roswell Bicycles sells a variety of lubricants that will help you keep your chain clean, quiet and protect your components (chainrings and cassettes). 

The ideal light setup combines a helmet-mounted spotlight and a bar-mounted unit with a broad-coverage beam. But if you can afford only one, a helmet-mounted light is better because it directs the light where you are looking. Mount it close to the center-top of your helmet.

It's starting to warm up in Atlanta.  Mid-day high temps are reaching into the 80's and the humidity is beginning to creep up.  On warm days, don't rely on thirst as an indicator of fluid needs. You should become accustomed to consuming fluids without feeling "thirsty".