There’s no doubt that your hard training can put wear and tear on important race gear. Before your race, make sure to thoroughly check and inspect your gear. We’ve put together a checklist for you to follow before your big day:
1. Goggles: Make sure that the eye seals have not perished and leak water. Check your strap and make sure the nose pieces aren’t brittle and are securely attached. Make sure the lenses aren’t scratched. If your goggles have any of these issues, consider replacing them and bringing them as back-ups to your new ones.
2. Wetsuit: Check your suit for potential tears and frayed seams. Look for holes and cuts; these can be patched and glued to prevent water entering the suit. Jack & Adam’s can help you decide if the suit can be repaired. Wetsuits aren’t required, so don’t worry if you don’t have one.
3. Bike: Check that the bike frame has no cracks, the wheels are not bent, and that all components are in working condition including brakes and shifters. If you do not know how to check for these things, call your local bike store and ask them for a safety check. On the morning of the race, make sure your tires are inflated properly.
4. Helmet: The plastic shell needs to be firmly affixed to the foam and the strap should not be frayed. There should be no cracks or dents, these will likely not pass inspection when checking into transition. The general rule for the chin strap is within two fingers spaces from the chin.
5. Cycling Shoes & Pedals: Make sure that the cleat is firmly attached to the bottom of the shoe. Replace cleat if it is worn down and may inhibit safe clipping in. Check your pedals and make sure that they are firmly attached to the crank.
6. Running Shoes: Look to see that they are not worn out of alignment or that the midsole is crushed. Cut down or replace any long or frayed shoe laces. If using elastic laces make sure that have not lost elasticity and that any plastic is still in good working condition
