How to prepare for the new cycling season: equipment, service, and fitness

What to check on your bike before your first ride

Your bike has most likely been resting over the winter, but that doesn’t mean it’s in perfect condition. Rubber can harden, oil can dry out, and bolts can loosen. Here’s your basic service check-list:

• Tires and tubes: Look for cracks on the sidewalls and check the tread. If the tires don’t hold pressure even after inflation, the issue may be with the valve or the tube may already be “worn out.”
• Brakes: For rim brakes, check pad wear and the condition of the rims. For disc brakes (Shimano, SRAM), inspect pad thickness and rotor condition.
• Drivetrain (chain, cassette, chainrings): Is the chain stretched? If you don’t have a chain checker at home (for example from Super B), stop by our shop. A stretched chain quickly wears out the cassette and chainrings.
• Bearings and play: Try moving the crank arms side to side and check whether the front fork (headset) has any play. Any “wobble” indicates the need for adjustment.
• Bolt tightening: Go over the handlebars, saddle, and pedals. Everything must be tight—but be careful not to overtighten. A torque wrench is the ideal tool.

When you can handle it at home and when it’s better to visit a service shop

There’s no shame in admitting that you lack the tools or experience for certain tasks.

• You can easily do at home: Inflate tires, replace a tube, clean and lubricate the chain (products from Force or Max1 are great choices), and adjust saddle height.
• Leave to the professionals: Wheel truing, suspension fork service, bleeding hydraulic brakes, or replacing the bottom bracket.

Tip from Axit.cz: Not sure if your bike is in good shape? Come to us for a pre-season check. At Axit.cz, we’ll tell you honestly what your bike needs and arrange a specific pre-season bike service.

Equipment: What you shouldn’t miss for a safe season

The new season is the perfect time to review what you carry with you. Safety and comfort are essential if you want riding to be enjoyable.

Basic “must-have” gear

• Lights: A quality front and rear light (e.g. Sigma or Force) is essential even in daylight.
• Service kit: Mini pump, spare tube, tire levers, and a multi-tool—Topeak offers brilliant compact kits.
• Hydration: A new bottle and a sturdy cage ensure you won’t run dry.

Clothing and comfort – so you don’t burn out after the first ride

Spring weather can be unpredictable. The foundation is quality cycling shorts or tights with a pad. Add gloves for better grip and a light wind jacket that fits easily into a jersey pocket.

Small upgrades that make a big difference

Want to treat yourself? Sometimes a little goes a long way:

• New tires: Higher-quality tires (e.g. Schwalbe) with better puncture protection.
• Electronics: Track your progress with bike computers from iGPSport or Sigma.
• New bike: If your old one is nearing the end of its life, check out models from Ghost, Pells, Stevens, Superior, or Leader Fox.

Fitness: How to prepare so the first rides don’t hurt

You don’t have to be a pro for bike fitness preparation to matter. The first ride shouldn’t be a shock to your muscles or joints.

Start before you even get back in the saddle

• Walk more and take the stairs instead of the elevator.
• Try light jogging or brisk walking 2–3 times a week.
• At home, focus on your “core” (midsection)—planks and squats will give you a more stable position and fewer back pains.

What kind of pre-season plan makes sense?

About 4–6 weeks before the main season, start being active. If the weather isn’t cooperating, use indoor trainers from Tacx or Elite for home workouts. The goal is to get your metabolism moving, not to chase records.

Bike fit: Prevent pain right from the start

You can have a top-tier bike from Rock Machine, CTM, or Levit, but if you’re sitting incorrectly, it will hurt. Incorrect saddle height leads to knee pain, while an overly long frame can cause neck stiffness.

You can do at home: Basic saddle height adjustment (leg slightly bent at the bottom of the pedal stroke) and leveling the saddle horizontally. If pain persists, a professional consultation at a service center makes sense—they can help match the bike’s geometry to your body.

Conclusion: Ready for the start?

Preparing for the new season pays off with every kilometer you ride. Check your bike, treat yourself to quality gear, and give your body time to adapt to movement. At Axit.cz, we’re ready to help with everything—from choosing a new bike to minor service tasks.