Testing, Testing: Tour de Gwent bike checklist

With just 10 days until we ride the Tour de Gwent 2022 we thought we'd share some of the tips we've learned over the years about how to best prepare for the big day. Making checklists can be time consuming, so we've done them for you!

Bike check

Get your bike serviced at Pedals Newport  or service it yourself!

Check your bike to make sure the following are in good working order:

• Front & back  brakes are working, stop your bike & aren’t rubbing.
• Headset on bike is checked, not loose, tight or making any noises.
• All gears are fully working & able to choose all of the gears on the bike.
• Wheels are in good condition with no major buckles & spin freely.
• Both tyres have the required air in them - not too hard or soft.
• Seat is adjusted correctly & seat stem is tightened.
• Handlebars are adjusted correctly & all handlebar stem bolts tightened.
• Front & rear derailleur is in good working order & tightened.
• Crankset spins freely & is not loose.
• Pedals are secured to crankset & again spin freely with no major noises.
• Check all bolts on bike are secured & tightened as required.

Weather

Ah, the Great British weather, it's unpredictable at best. We recommend checking weather conditions for the upcoming week and 2 days before, choosing the appropriate kit for that weather.

Here's a reminder of what to have so you're prepared for all weathers:

• Helmet - required
• Waterproof/Windproof jacket
• Gilet depending on forecast
• Gloves to suit weather conditions & temperature
• Suitable cycling shorts/tights
• Overshoes if temperature required
• Good quality cycling socks or equivalent
• Arm or leg warmers for beginning of ride or if conditions change
• Consider base layer if cooler conditions
• Change of warm clothing for end of ride

Tip: try on clothing 2 days before to make sure it still fits comfortably - don’t let uncomfortable clothing hold you back!

Ride prep checklist 

Everything you need for a safe ride on the day:

Tools

• Puncture repair kit
• Inner tubes (2 minimum)
• Tyre levers
• Spare tyre
• Inner tube pump
• Multi-tool or enough allen keys/screwdriver to suit bike adjustments
• Chain extractor tool or spare quick link if applicable

Bike extras

• Enough water bottles & cages attached to bike dependent on distance cycling
• Lights if required dependent on weather conditions/time of year
• Check mobile phone is fully charged on day of the ride
• Printed map of route

Basic First Aid supplies

• Plasters/dressings
• Alcohol wipes
• Adhesive first aid tape

We hope you all enjoy the ride this year, good luck, ride safe. For any other information please visit the Tour de Gwent website. or check out our Tour de Gwent socials.

Happy pedalling!