Bicycling

© Leo Espinosa

Even if everything looks intact after a wreck, you might still be a catastrophe waiting to happen. A hairline crack can grow, a dent can buckle, a bend can break. Though it's hard to accept that your R1 000 helmet may be headed for the dump, remember that the only way to ride safely again is to do a thorough post-crash inspection.

HELMET

Assuming you're not wearing a multi-impact lid, one hit and your helmet is toast. Even if there is no visible damage to the shell, the foam layer's ability to protect your noggin from future hits has been compromised, but it may not be a total loss. Check with the manufacturer to see if it has a replacement policy.

FRAME

Clean it, then check for cracks, dents and bulges. Examine around the head tube, chainstay, seatstay bridge, bottom bracket, dropouts and welds. If you notice anything amiss, have a professional assess it. Warning: Do not disregard a scratch in the paint. It could eventually result in rust or corrosion.

WHEELS AND BRAKES

Spin both wheels to make sure they are true and round. Wiggle them side to side to feel for play in the hubs. Check spokes to be sure that none has de-tensioned. Squeeze both brake levers to ensure that the pads are centred on and still contacting the rim.

STEERING AREA

Check that you didn't bend your handlebar. Then squeeze the front brake and rock the bike fore and aft to feel for play in the headset. On a mountain bike, check for looseness where the fork sliders enter the lowers. If anything is amiss, steering and balance will be out of line.

COMPONENTS

Rear derailleur and cranks: If they're bent, do not ride. Saddle, seatpost and pedals: If they're damaged, replace them.