There are different ways of measuring how a bike fits. The basic criteria are the safety and comfort of the rider.

The cyclist undergoing training, or the less confident rider, should have the saddle set at a height whereby they're able to touch the ground with the balls of both feet.

The more experienced and more confident rider would raise their saddle in order to gain the maximum power down on the pedals. This sacrifices the ability to touch the ground with both feet from the riding position.

Two working brakes are needed on your bike, front and back. They need to be checked regularly.

To adjust cantilever brakes:

Loosen nut O at the rear of the cable bridge and ensure that the bridge is in the centre of the cable.

Adjust the length of the main cable from the brake lever. Tighten nut O.

Loosen the nut P and position the brake block so that it will fit squarely against the wheel rim when the brakes are applied and will not touch the tyre. Tighten nut P

.

To adjust cable brakes:

Loosen lock-nut A from C then wind screw B upwards until the brake blocks are about 3mm from the rim of the wheel. A 50p piece should just go between the rim and brake block.

Make sure that when the brake is on, the brake blocks are flat to the wheel rim and don't touch the tyre. The closed end of the brake shoe should always be at the front or you will lose your brake block. Tighten lock-nut A and lightly oil the cable at both ends.

Ensure that the chain is not too loose so nothing can get caught up in it.

To adjust the chain for a bike without 'dropdown' gears:

1) Turn the cycle upside down and loosen the two nuts D on each side of the rear wheel and pull the wheel back.

2) Tighten the nuts then turn the pedals slowly to see that the chain is adjusted correctly. It should have 20 millimeters of movement at a point mid-way along the chain.

If the steering head becomes loose, it may affect your steering.

To adjust the steering head:

Loosen nut K and push it up the stem. Then, with your fingers, tighten nut L. Do not over-tighten as it could damage the ball bearings and make the steering very stiff. Finally, tighten the lock nut K.

If there is sideways movement in your front wheel, you may need to adjust the cones.

To adjust the cones, loosen both nuts E. Tighten nuts F until there is no side play, then retighten both nuts F. Be careful not to over-tighten nut F or the wheel will not turn.

Check the wheel is straight with forks and brakes.

Be careful not to over oil your bike.

You can oil brake cables, wheel cones, the chain, bottom bracket and pedal pivots.

But be sure to keep all oil off the tyres, brake blocks and wheel rims.

Tyres must be in good condition with good tread, no cuts or bulges and they must be pumped up hard.