As part of the Nelson Mail’s Help is at Hand series, journalists have been exploring ways to get out and moving without breaking the bank.

We met up with bicycle mechanic Felix Laufkotter of Bikes by Felix, to learn how to get the old bike at the back of your shed running again.

Laufkotter has worked as a bicycle mechanic since he was 18. He used a 1982 Raleigh Burmuda bicycle that he had bought second-hand as a prop.

The first step was to do a visual check of the bicycle and check it was complete, with two brakes, two wheels, and handlebars.

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The second step was to pump up the tyres, and check that they held air. Tyres could be checked by hand for rips and tears, and their sides would have their required PSI on them.

It was important to check and see if cracks like dry skin had formed. If these existed, the tyres would most likely burst.

Once the visual check had been completed, an “M” check should be completed, Laufkotter said.

Named for its up and down shape, the “M” check started at the front wheel. First, cyclists should check the front wheel was secured, and the skewers were closed.

Then move to the bicycle’s front brakes. Make sure they were functioning by pumping each one a few times. Depending on how old the bicycle was, and whether it had been stored inside or not, there was a chance it could have rust on the brake lines. Give the wheel a spin make sure there were no bulges.

Then, move to the handlebars, and make sure there was no movement at the base. Make sure the nuts and bolts were firmly tightened up.

Finally, make sure back brakes were functioning. Give the wheel a spin, and check it was tightened.

Laufkotter said if there was anything seriously damaged or not working on the bicycle, it was important to take it into a mechanic to repair before riding it.

Checking the helmet was also a “must,” Laufkotter said. The lifespan of a helmet was usually around four years.

Cyclists should hold their hands on either side of the helmet and give it a pull to see if any cracks formed.