Bicycle chain slipping: roadside and home fixes
Find out whether the chain, the cogs or the gears are the problem, and fix what you can before you ride on.
18 itemsStart
Cycling kit for a first long ride
What to bring, what to check on the bike and how to fuel your first 50 km or more.
Check the bike (5)
- Pump tyres to the pressure on the sidewall
- Squeeze both brakes: firm, with pads not worn out
- Check the chain is clean and oiled, and gears change well
- Check wheel axles are tight and the saddle is at the right height
- Do a short test ride the day before
Repair kit (5)
- Spare tube that fits your wheel size
- Tyre levers and pump or CO2 inflator
- Multi-tool
- Puncture patches
- Learn to change a tube before you go
Wear (6)
- Helmet that fits and is strapped
- Padded shorts with no underwear under them
- Layers for the weather, plus a light rain jacket
- Glasses and gloves
- Sunscreen on your neck, arms and legs
- Front and rear lights if you may be out near dusk
Food and water (3)
- Two water bottles, with a refill stop planned
- Snacks to eat every 30 to 45 minutesBananas, bars or dates. Start early.
- A proper meal before you set off
Plan the ride (5)
- Choose a quiet route, with a cafe or shop halfway
- Keep an easy pace you can talk at
- Tell someone your route and return time
- Carry phone, ID, cash and a card
- Have a bail-out plan: train, taxi or a friend