Posted - March 4, 2021
Watch our setup video
Your bike will come from us fully assembled after a thorough safety check by our Cytech qualified mechanics. All you’ll need to do is pop on your pedals and adjust the handlebars. If you need further help we have a great video that will guide you through the process.
The bike will come with everything you need, including written instructions. The video is there just in case. We’re also on hand if you need any further advice!
Make note of your frame number
It’s always good to make a note of your frame number. We don’t keep a copy, so if you need it for any reason, you’ll have one to hand. It would be a good idea to note it in your bike manual and store that somewhere safe.
Do a quick check
It’s always worth having a quick check of your bike once you’ve put the pedals on and adjusted the bars. There are a few tweaks you can make too.
Sort your suspension: If your bike has suspension, it’s a good idea to set it up to the correct pressure using a shock pump. Each suspension manufacturer has guides on how to set up suspension. You can find guides for your suspension online and set it up in line with the manufacturer's instructions.
Adjust your seatpost: This is especially important for road cyclists. Get your seat at the right height. Too low and you risk injury, too high and it can be dangerous, cause you to overstretch, and again, put you at risk of injury.
We would recommend getting a bike fit if you can, but as a starting point you can get your saddle to the right height in a few steps:
1. As a starting point, line the saddle up with your hip bone and adjust to this height.
2. Get on your bike (either on a turbo, leaning against a wall or having someone hold the front of the bike).
3. Wearing the shoes you’ll be riding in, place your heel on your pedal. Pedal slowly, backwards to the six o'clock position (your knee should be straight, if not adjust the height until it is).
4. When pedalling, if your hips are rocking back and forth your saddle is too high. This means you’re overreaching.
5. Adjust your saddle either way (in small increments) until you can pedal comfortably with no rocking in the hips.
6. When your saddle is the correct height and your foot is in the correct position, your leg should have a slight bend (around 30 degrees).
7. Mark your seatpost (with tape or a marker) so you can adjust back in future if it is moved.
Adjust your brakes: Make sure your brakes are in a comfortable position, you can reach them safely and work them efficiently. Take some time to bed your brakes in too!
Check your tyre pressure: You can adjust the pressure accordingly. Tyres will typically have the recommended PSI printed on the tyre, and will always have the maximum PSI.
Think about what you need
Number one on that list should be insurance. You get 8 weeks free insurance with us through Cycleplan. Plus, you get 20% off if you decide to take out an annual policy with them.
If you haven’t already, you can take a look at our wide range of kit, helmets and accessories.
Consider spares: Have you got a puncture repair kit, spare tube and the tools you need if something happens when you’re on a ride or commuting to work?
Get kitted out: You don’t need to spend a fortune to get the right kit. We would always advocate and recommend you wear a helmet! There are some great options now and something for a range of budgets. We also have some great men, women and children’s options for cycling and mountain bike clothing.
Share your new bike day photos with us!
Share your photos with us on social media and use #CycleSolUK for a chance to be featured on our social media channels. If you don’t already, follow us on Instagram or Facebook. We love to see new bike day posts! You can even drop us an email and keep in touch.
Go back to the Blog
