Inspecting a bike help?

[Laura]

If i order a bike from a store when i take it home what should i inspect for to make sure they assembled it correctly
It is a mountain bike, the more answers the better thank you all

[John M]

Take it for a test ride in the parking lot before you leave. Make sure the brakes work and it shifts gears. Check the tires and make sure they are firm before you walk out the door so you can do the test ride. I would tell them you are going to ride in the parking lot and ask what you should do if you have a problem.

I would pick the bike up and spin the wheels in the store to make sure the brakes don't drag and the wheels run true and straight. Turn the pedals backwards and watch the front chain rings they shouldn't wobble back an forth. Other then that I don't know. If it doesn't feel right take it back.

[wle ?+|???? ????????]

brakes should not squeak
all gears should shift in and out correctly
wheels do not wobble
wheels are straight
bunch of things

wle

[Me]

Make sure the steering ratio is square, braking power is even, the gears shift smoothly, and the chain glides around in a smooth cycle. Also check to make sure all bolts are the right size and tightened. You should check the bushings as well. You can do so by propping the bike on its seat and then trying to rattle the wheels from side to side. You will need to hold the frame still. If you can rattle tightly bolted wheels it means that your bushings are too small. While you have your bike up side down you should check your bearings too. Just give each wheel a spin and listen for a ticking sound. If you hear ticking it means that your bearings aren't greased very well.