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I’ve just received my bike, what happens next?
You have just collected your bike from The Bike Project (which is now yours to keep). On this page you can find some tips on basic adjustments, how to use and fit your accessories and cycling safety guidelines.
What is included?
Along with your bike, you should also have received a pack of accessories and tools. This includes:
- Helmet – see section on how to make basic adjustments
- Lock – see section on how to lock your bike
- Lights – you must use these whenever it is dark, it is the law
Basic adjustments
How do I adjust my helmet so it’s safe and comfortable?
Here is an instructional video to help demonstrate how to adjust your helmet. You do not need any tools to do this.
How do I adjust my saddle so that I can cycle comfortably?
Here is an instructional video to help demonstrate how to adjust your saddle correctly. For this you may need to use the allen key, spanner tools or screw driver.
How do I adjust my handlebars so that I can cycle comfortably?
Here is an instructional video to help demonstrate how to adjust your handlebars correctly. You may need to use the allen key, spanner tools or screw driver.
How to lock your bike
Bike thefts can be very common in the UK so it is very important that you lock your bike every time you leave it, even for 30 seconds to go to a shop.
If you can, bring your bike indoors overnight and take your bike lock with you on every ride in case you need it.
Follow the instructions and diagrams below to learn how to use your bike lock properly.
Does your bike have Quick Release wheels?
Quick Release
Non-Quick Release
How to lock a bike with quick release wheels:
How to lock a bike without quick release wheels:
Cycle training videos
The Bike Project has created a series of short instructional training videos so you can cycle safely in your area.
Your first ride
Planning your journey
You should plan your journey before setting off, you can use apps like Google Maps. Planning your journey will make it less stressful and help you work out how long the journey will take by bike. Wear comfortable clothing and shoes which cover your toes. Remember to take everything that you need with you including water, your helmet, lock, lights and a fully charged mobile phone.
Cycling Safely
Be observant and aware of your surroundings. Respect other road users and follow the highway code for cyclists at all times.
Stay behind large vehicles such as lorries and buses. Do not try to overtake or squeeze through tight spaces in traffic.
You must stop at every red light, this is the law.
Do not cycle on the pavement unless it is permitted to do so, otherwise you can be fined.
Remember, if you are lost, or somewhere new, busy or just feel unsure, pull over to the side of the road and walk your bike to a quieter road or area.
Maintenance and repairs
You can use ‘ABCD’ to do a regular check:
AIR
A
Check you have enough air in the tyres by pinching your tyre on both sides.
It should feel firm like an apple.
BRAKES
B
Check both brakes are working well. Check your front brake by holding your bike by the handlebars, pushing it forward and squeezing the brakes.
Check your rear brake by rolling your bike backwards and then squeezing your brakes.
CHAIN
C
Is your chain moving freely? Can you move your pedals backwards and the chain turns?
Your chain should also be oiled, silver grey or black. It should not look rusty.
DIRECTION
D
Handlebars control the direction of the bike. Check your stem is tight and facing the same direction as your front wheel.
Squeeze your front tyre between your feet, and your wheels between your knees. Then hold the handlebars to see if you can move them – they shouldn’t move!
Where can I pump my tyres?
Find out where your nearest bike shop is, ring to see if they are still open and ask if you can come in to use a bike pump to ensure that your tyres are fully inflated. They should not normally charge you for this.
Help my bike is broken!
We offer lifetime repairs and replacements on all the bikes we donate. Please call us first so we can make a quick assessment and try and give you advice and support on the phone, and work out the next steps to get you cycling again.
Other activities
Stay connected
Bike Buddies is our refugee befriending programme, which matches bike recipients to friendly volunteer cycling fans to go on bike rides together.
Through our Pedal Power programme we offer free cycling lessons in London and Birmingham, led by qualified cycling instructor women, inspiring our participants to feel the freedom of their very own bike.
We have launched Cyber Cyclists, a programme of online activities to keep people connected, supported and active during this time.
If you would like to be added to any of these programmes please get in touch via the contact details below.
Further Resources
If you found the information on this page useful we have further resources for new cyclists.
Contact us for further help
We are here for you!
Call: 0207 733 8098 or fill out our contact form for more advice and support during this time. We aim to get back to you as soon as we can.