Ready for spring: Check your cycling equipment at the start of the season

Light and data - Electronics

That still worked last autumn! And now? Smartphones and GPS computers can no longer be paired. The reason: software developers don't hibernate and the firmware needs an update to ensure trouble-free data flow. Also important: For safety reasons, a rear light is a good idea in road traffic, even during the day, and is becoming increasingly popular. That's why the red light is first connected to the charger and then to the seat post.

Tidiness and system - clearing the boot

If you survived last season without punctures, you probably haven't checked the contents and condition of the storage compartment in the frame or other tool bags for a while. Is the right inner tube for the tyre still in there? Has a sharp tool perhaps drilled into it over time? Or has the CO2 cartridge been punctured and is possibly empty? So, clear everything out once, check and replace anything that no longer fits or works.

Sorted and complete - Minitool

For old riders, the Alien from Topeak was the Swiss army knife of multi-tools. However, it is not the quantity of tools that is decisive, but that they fit your bike. Tip: The screws on the bike determine the choice of tools; mini-tools with bits are a clever option.

Pull and push - Boa fastener

Most cycling shoes today are equipped with Boa cable laces. If these are stiff or even defective, the manufacturer offers repair kits for every type. These also include a small Inhex spanner for disassembly. A drop of silicone oil will make an intact mechanism run smoothly again.

Support and alignment - pedal plates

Cleats for clipless pedals are wearing parts. The grip on the pedal deteriorates over time. Tip for refitting: Mark the outline of the old cleats on the sole. Tighten the screws evenly; Shimano recommends five to six Newton metres.

Durability and hygiene - Helmet

Someone once said something about the expiry date on helmets. Is that true? It's certainly true. Manufacturers recommend that helmets should be replaced after three to five years - even if they have not been damaged in a fall. However, this is a recommendation, not a regulation. As a helmet can age at different rates depending on UV radiation, intensity of use or storage, it should definitely be checked for cracks in the helmet shell or brittle straps. If everything is technically in order, the padding and straps should be cleaned with a sponge and soap for reasons of hygiene.

Washing and spraying - functional clothing

PFAS-free care products, such as those from Nikwax or Hey, are recommended for the care of weatherproof clothing with membranes and for waterproofing; they are free from environmentally harmful perfluorinated and polyfluorinated alkyl substances ("eternity chemicals").

Care and mending - zip fastener

Gear Aid has the right products to make hard-running zips run smoothly again or to repair fall damage. The Zipper Cleaner + Lubricant cleans and lubricates the zip, while the AquaSure Repair Kit can be used to patch small holes to make them watertight. Both products cost around ten euros.