In Corona's time, switching from one bike to another makes sense from an expert's point of view, in order to complete the necessary routes. But the vehicle must be in good shape for a safe journey - a checklist.
Freiburg (dpa / tmn) - Staying at home is currently the most important recommendation to curb the spread of the coronavirus. However, if it is essential to go to work or to the supermarket, for example, the bicycle is a good choice.
"I can only emphasize: go on a bike," says the biometrist Gerd Antes, who deals, among other things, with the spread of infections. Cycling is a 100% self-protection, because you only touch the bike and not, for example, the poles on the train or bus.
"And it is a high protection for others, because you keep your distance automatically and continuously," explains the long-time director of the German Cochrane Center at the Freiburg University Hospital. If a lot of people got on their bikes now, public transport would be relieved, "which is the largest mass public event and where the risk of infection is particularly high".
However, for many people, the bike should still be in the basement or in the garage after the winter months. Before the first trip, you should check it thoroughly, advises the German Road Safety Council (DVR). The checkpoints:
First impression: what does the bike look like? Are there any cracks or deformations? You jerk your saddle and handlebar vigorously with your hand - they must not twist. Loose parts on the wheel are fixed and generally all screw connections are checked to ensure that they are still tight. So that dust or dirt does not cover any damage, the bike should be cleaned thoroughly beforehand.
Brake and light check: Certainly the most important item on the list. If the brake lever can be pushed all the way, it has too much play and has to be tightened - this can be done using the small knurled screws on the handle and brake body.
The following applies to the pad: If the transverse grooves on the inside of brake pads are no longer visible, a change is due, explains the Allgemeine Deutsche Fahrrad-Club (ADFC) Bayern. Brake dust can be removed from the blocks with a nail file or emery paper.
In the case of disc brakes and their pads, the thickness is decisive - the millimeter values should not be below this is stated in the operating instructions. If in doubt, better ask in the specialist workshop - according to the Bundesverband Zukunft Fahrrad (BVZF), they can open in all federal states.
The Road Traffic Licensing Regulations (StVZO) make clear specifications for lighting on the bike. Those who disregard them risk a fine of 20 euros.
Specifically, working lights and reflectors must be installed at the front and rear. The pedals of the bicycle must have yellow reflectors according to the StVZO. Classic yellow cat eyes reflect the light falling into the spokes to the side. Alternatively, reflective strips on the tire sidewalls are fine. Here you should check whether they are still complete, according to the DVR.
Inflate tires: Usually the air pressure leaves something to be desired after the winter break. And the tires may be damaged. The ADFC Bayern explains whether they still run smoothly or whether they are still egg-ying. If the distance between the two remains the same when turning, everything is fine.
How much air pressure is correct is shown on the side flank of the jacket. The pressure can be read on an air pump with a manometer and inflated accordingly.
Chain care: The chain is a heavily used part on the wheel. It is cleaned and then lubricated with grease or oil. Caution: worn chains can damage the sprockets and cause the gear shift to jerky. Prefer to exchange these chains.
Bicycle check: tips from the DVR
Bicycle check: tips from the ADFC Bayern
BZVF to bike workshops
