Fix guide · Cleaning & care
One-Minute Safety Check Before Every Ride
Air, brakes, chain, battery, lights
Quick answer
Squeeze the tires, test both brakes, glance at the chain, check the battery is locked in and charged, and make sure the lights work. About one minute.
Try this first
Free, and each takes under 5 minutes.
In plain English
A quick check before riding catches the problems most likely to cause a crash or a long walk home: a soft tire, weak brakes, or a battery that isn't locked in.
Watch how it's done
Video by Park Tool. It may show a regular bike: on an e-bike, switch off and remove the battery first, and unplug the motor cable before taking off a hub-motor wheel.
Step-by-step checklist
Work from the top. Steps go from free and easy to shop jobs. Switch the bike off before touching any connector. Tick each step as you go. Your progress is saved on this device.
Parts you might need
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. These links go straight to Amazon.
Only buy a part if the free steps didn't fix it. Always match the voltage and connector type to your bike.
- Link coming soon
Floor pump with gauge
Soft tires make the motor work harder and cost range.
- Link coming soon
Chain lube
Keeps the chain quiet and stops wear. Use bike chain lube, not household oil.
Still not fixed?
Pages to try next:
- Monthly E-Bike Maintenance Checklist
- How to Set Your E-Bike Tire Pressure
- E-Bike Brakes Weak or Not Working
- All cleaning & care guides
When it's time for a shop: if you've worked through every step and the problem is still there, take the bike to an e-bike shop. Bring your notes on when it happens, plus the code.