Bicycle from China: checks before your first ride
Before riding, check for transport damage, assemble to the exact model's instructions and have a competent bicycle mechanic inspect the brakes, steering and wheel fixings. Keep the bicycle out of use until faults are resolved. Coordinate factory checks and assembly documents with Cambridge China Bridge.
Arrange assembly before the bicycle arrives
For a conventional bicycle without electrical assistance, ask the supplier what arrives fitted and what needs assembly or adjustment. Obtain English instructions for the exact model and its fitted components, including tightening torques, tyre pressures and insertion limits. Book a competent bicycle mechanic who works with the relevant brakes, frame material and axle system.
Ask the factory to demonstrate assembly using the instructions supplied in the carton. Confirm that the illustrated parts match the production bicycle and that necessary fittings are included. Our guide to testing assembly instructions explains how to check whether the instructions actually work.
Look for transport damage before assembly
After unpacking, examine the frame, fork, wheel rims, axle mounting points, brake discs and exposed cables or hoses. Look for cracks, dents, distortion, crushed hoses and components that have struck each other inside the carton. Photograph anything suspicious before adjusting it. An undamaged carton does not establish that the bicycle is sound.
Keep a suspect bicycle out of use and ask the mechanic to assess it. Do not straighten a damaged fork, frame or brake disc simply to make it fit. Retain the packaging and identification details while discussing the fault with the supplier. Our faulty goods guide covers the separate claims process.
Check braking function and lever layout
Ask the mechanic to confirm which lever operates each brake and check the intended UK layout, with the right lever operating the front brake. Check front and rear braking separately while stationary and while pushing the bicycle. Levers should feel firm and should not reach the handlebar before effective braking occurs.
Have the mechanic check brake mounting security, cable anchoring or hydraulic leaks, pad alignment and braking surfaces. Pads must contact the intended braking surface rather than the tyre. Disc brakes need checks for rotor security, contamination and rubbing. Follow the brake manufacturer's bedding-in procedure after the bicycle has passed inspection.
Secure the steering, saddle and pedals
Have the mechanic check fork orientation, handlebar alignment, headset adjustment and stem security. Steering should move freely without looseness, binding or cables pulling tight. The handlebar and stem should not slip under a controlled check. Use the component manufacturer's tightening instructions and a suitable torque wrench rather than tightening by feel.
Check the saddle clamp and seatpost against their insertion markings and instructions. Ask the mechanic to identify the correct pedal for each crank, check thread direction and fit them without forcing the threads. For a folding bicycle, include hinge condition, latch engagement and any secondary locking mechanism in the inspection.
Check wheel retention and tyres
Confirm that the front and rear axles are correctly seated and secured using the instructions for the fitted system. Quick-release skewers, axle nuts and through-axles need different procedures. Ask the mechanic to demonstrate correct operation; a lever's appearance alone does not confirm secure clamping. Check wheel security again whenever a wheel is removed and refitted.
Spin each wheel and check for wobble, rubbing and bearing play. Inspect tyre sidewalls and tread, confirm that the tyre beads are seated evenly, and set pressure within the tyre and rim manufacturers' limits. Ask the mechanic to assess spoke tension and wheel alignment. Keep mudguards, racks and loose fittings clear of tyres and spokes.
Get the mechanic's inspection before riding
Ask for a recorded inspection covering assembly, fasteners, brakes, steering, wheel retention, tyres, crank security and drivetrain operation. Record the bicycle's identity, faults found and corrections made. Keep it out of use until the mechanic confirms it is ready. Arrange a controlled test ride away from traffic after inspection, then stop if there is slipping, looseness, unusual noise or weak braking.
Ask the mechanic to check the lights and reflectors for your intended use. The Highway Code recommends fitting a bell. For business stock, arrange an assembly and release check for each bicycle before handover. A factory quality inspection can check goods before shipment; transport and final assembly still need checks at destination.
Frequently asked questions
Can I ride a bicycle from China straight out of the box?
Arrange assembly and a competent mechanic's inspection before riding, even if it looks complete. Transport damage, loose fixings and brake adjustment may need attention.
Does a factory inspection replace a bicycle mechanic?
Arrange checks at destination as well. A factory inspection cannot establish the bicycle's condition after transport or confirm that local assembly was completed correctly.
What if the brake levers operate the wrong brakes?
Keep the bicycle out of use and ask a competent mechanic to check and correct the setup. Have them demonstrate which lever operates each brake before you ride.
What should I do if the fork or wheel is damaged?
Do not ride it. Photograph the damage, retain the packaging and ask the mechanic to assess repair or replacement. Contact the supplier before altering the suspect component.