Box to Bike - Assembling Your New Bike
Congratulations on your new bike! We want to ensure that your riding experience is fantastic right from the start. While we always recommend bringing your bike to a local bike shop for assembly by a qualified mechanic, we understand that some of you may want to build your bike yourself. This simple step-by-step guide will help you assemble your bike right out of the box.
At CyclePath, we ship our bikes as fully assembled as possible to minimize the time between your order and hitting the trails. This guide focuses on assembling your bike from the box, not on building it from scratch.
Tools You’ll Need
Before you begin, gather the following common bike tools to make the assembly process smoother:
- * Metric Allen Wrenches (4mm,5mm,6mm)
- * Pedal Wrench (15mm thin for pedal install)
- Torx Wrench (disc brake bolts)
- Torque Wrench (setting bolts to tension)
- Shock Pump (optional for air suspension)
- Floor/Hand Pump (to adjust tire pressure)
- Bike Grease (for seat post and pedals)
- Carbon Paste (for carbon handlebars/seat posts)
- Bike Stand (optional)
*Note: Using the proper size and tool ensures the parts are attached correctly, using the wrong tool can result in damage or parts failing under use. Example: the space between the pedal and the crank is very tight and using a pedal wrench ensures the proper install.
Assembly Instructions
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STEP 1: Unboxing Your Bike
Carefully open the box and remove your bike along with any accessories. Ensure you keep all the parts organized and easy to find. We try to minimize the amount assembly required on your end, so be careful when removing parts. Keep all packaging until you are satisfied with the assembly.
Pro Tip: The use of a Bike Stand makes working on your bike easier.
STEP 2: Inspect the Components
Check that all components are present, including the wheels, handlebars, pedals, and any additional accessories. Ensure nothing has come off during shipping and might be floating around the box.
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STEP 3: Attach the Handlebars
Position the handlebars into the stem. Use the appropriate Allen wrench to tighten the bolts, ensuring they are secure but not overly tight. If you have carbon handlebars, apply a small amount of carbon paste to the inside surface of the stem where it contacts the handlebar.
Pro Tip: Starting with the top bolts, thread the bolts in by hand and then tighten with a torque wrench, taking care not to exceed the torque spec written on the stem.
STEP 4: Install the Front Wheel
Align the front wheel with the fork dropouts. Secure the wheel in place using the quick-release lever or axle, depending on your bike. Once installed check the brakes by squeezing the brake leavers, they should not feel spongy or pull on the handlebar.
Pro Tip: Some Axles are spring loaded, so make sure to consult your manual.
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STEP 5: Attach the Seat Post
Insert the seat post into the frame and adjust to your preferred height. Tighten the seat clamp securely. The proper torque will be indicated on the seat collar.
STEP 6: Pedal Installation
If your bike has pedals included, use the pedal wrench to attach them to the crank arms, ensuring they are tightened properly. Pedals have a dedicated left and right, make sure to install the correct one with a little grease on the threads. Tighten: Right pedal clockwise, Left pedal counterclockwise.
Pro Tip: Using a Pedal Wrench makes this task very simple, not using one risks in-proper instillation and possible stripping of the crank.
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STEP 7: Check Tire Pressure
Use your floor pump to inflate the tires to the recommended pressure listed on the sidewall. Tire pressure varies from tire to tire, so make sure to check the sidewall of your tires for the correct psi. Be careful not to exceed the maximum.
STEP 8: Final Checks
Go through each component to ensure everything is secured properly. Make sure the brakes and gears are functioning correctly. Adjust suspension if needed. If you are unsure of any of the previous steps, please contact us or a local bike mechanic. It is easier to correct an issue before it is ridden.
Pro Tip: We are here to help, don't be afraid to ask.
Ready to Ride!
Once you’ve completed the assembly and checks, your bike is ready to hit the trails! Don't forget we love these bikes as much as you do, so please tag us in pictures/videos of your new bike. Enjoy your ride, and welcome to the CyclePath community!
If you have any questions or need assistance, feel free to send us a message. We offer free follow ups on the install to help get your riding. We always recommend you take your newly setup bike to a trained mechanic to inspect and ensure it is safe to ride.
Upgrade Your Ride
Adding on additional upgrades at this stage will save having to take it apart and re-assemble later. We can also help with some of the pre-assembly. Improve your ride performance with a carbon handlebar, go tubeless for that puncture proof ride, or toss on some new pedals/clips to keep you locked in and stylish.
Ride Hard, Stay Clean
Keep your bike so clean, even your mom would approve! Let’s shine it up with our top-notch cleaning products and extend the life of your bike!
