Get a quote

Common Causes of Bicycle Break Downs and How to Fix Them

A man wearing a helmet repairs a bicycle focused on the bike's chain.

Written by

Anna Jones

in

Not much is more frustrating for a cyclist than a sudden breakdown. The good news is that mechanical failures can often be quickly solved. Most breakdowns stem from a few common causes that, with the right knowledge as well as some essential tools and good bicycle insurance, can be addressed there and then. This handy guide covers the top issues cyclists face, their cause, fix and how to prevent them in future.

1. Flat Tyres

Cause: Punctures from sharp objects like glass, thorns or nails are the most common culprits. Under-inflated tyres are also more prone to pinch flats.

Fix: You will need to have a spare inner tube, tyre lever and a mini pump or CO2 inflator to hand. Then you can:

  • Remove the wheel
  • Take out the punctured tube
  • Check the tyre for debris
  • Replace the tube
  • If you don’t have a spare tube you can use a patch kit

Prevention: Use puncture-resistant tyres or tyre liners. Make sure to also check your tyre pressure regularly.

2. Slipped or Broken Chain

Cause: Chains can slip due to worn components or poor shifting technique. A broken chain is usually the consequence of rust, wear or excessive force.

Fix: The fix depends on whether the chain has just slipped or has actually broken.

For a slipped chain:

  • Shift to the smallest chainring
  • Gently guide the chain back onto the gears

For a broken chain:

  • Use a chain tool or a quick link to reconnect it
  • Carry a multi-tool with a chain breaker just in case

Prevention: Keep your chain clean and well lubricated. Replace it roughly every 2000 to 3000 miles.

3. Gear Shifting Issues

Cause: Misaligned derailleurs, stretched cables and dirty components can all lead to poor shifting.

Fix:

  • Clean and lubricate your drivetrain
  • Adjust the barrel adjuster on your derailleur to fine tune cable tension
  • If shifting is still off you may need to visit your local bike shop for a full tune-up

Prevention: Regular maintenance and avoiding cross-chaining, which occurs when the chain runs at an extreme angle such as using the big chainring and big rear cog at the same time, or the small chainring and small rear cog, can extend the life of your drivetrain.

4. Brake Failure or Squealing

Cause: Worn brake pads, dirty rims or rotors, or misaligned calipers can reduce braking power or cause annoying sqeuals.

Fix:

  • Inspect your brake pads – if they’re worn, replace them
  • Clean your rims or rotors with rubbing alcohol
  • Adjust brake calipers so pads contact the rim or rotor evenly

Prevention: Check your brakes before every ride especially if it’s wet outside or your route is expected to be hilly.

5. Loose Bolts and Components

Cause: Vibration from regular cycling can loosen bolts on things like handlebars, seat posts or wheels.

Fix:

  • Carry a multi-tool and check your bolts regularly ensuring they’re adequately tight
  • Use a torque wrench for critical components to avoid over tightening

Prevention: Bolt checks should become part of your maintenance routine.

6. Worn Tyres or Wheels Out of True

Cause: Regular wear or hitting potholes and curbs can damage both your tyres and wheels.

Fix:

  • Tyres with visible wear, cracks or bald spots should be replaced
  • Use a spoke wrench to true wobbly wheels

Prevention: If you can, avoid cycling on rough terrain; inspect your wheels and tyres after particularly long or bumpy rides.

Bicycle Insurance

Sometimes no matter how well-prepared you are or how thorough your bike maintenance routine is, breakdowns can’t be fixed at the roadside.

With an insurance policy from Cover4Cycles you have the option to add bicycle breakdown cover. This means that if your bike suffers a mechanical or structural fault and can’t be ridden any further, we’ll cover up to £350 towards the cost of getting you:

  • Home
  • To a nearby repair shop
  • To a train station
  • To a car hire company
  • Or even a hotel if required


This means you’ll have peace of mind that you’re covered even in the worst-case scenario.

Final Thoughts

By understanding the most common causes of bicycle breakdowns, knowing how to fix them and keeping up with regular maintenance, you’ll be able to handle most issues on the spot. When a repair is simply not possible, our bicycle insurance with optional breakdown cover will mean you always have backup.

More posts