THE FOLLOWING IS A WORK IN PROGRESS AND SHOULD NOT BE CONSIDERED READY/COMPLETE

Original list by NeilCruz modified by graycatgrayhat

Here is what I plan on doing for my pre-1st ride based on data I gleaned from videos + CCS v1, CCS v2, and the sparse RCS Info:

On Delivery:

  • Inspect box before signing/accepting for the delivery, if it beyond reasonable transport wear (bent in half, ripped more then 30-40% with bike/parts showing/damaged) deny it.
  • Use discretion here longer post trips will cause more wear, pre-built electric bikes can be costly and denying a multi thousand dollar purchase should be a last resort.

Pre-build:

  • Inspect box before opening, check all sides including the bottom and collect high resolution pictures and video.
  • Take high resolution pictures of anything while unboxing the bike and parts take care to look over any loose or non secured parts.
  • Ensure to inspect the paint on the frame, including the under side, look for scratches, missed spots, and thin paint coverage. These though small could lead the issues later in the bikes life, contact manufacturer on repair instructions/touch up kits.
  • Inspect both wheels looking over spokes, spoke nipples, rims and value steams for any misalignment or damage.
  • Inspect all screw holes are clean and have no machine damage, clean up any swarf (metal dust, shavings).
  • Leave the bike in the stock condition to start, this can help if troubleshooting or support if needed. Making any modifications to bikes before they are known working should be avoided.

Controllers, Cables and Batteries:

  • Open the battery housing and inspect the ECU installation - look for anything that looks crimped or any exposed metal.
  • Check over the battery for any defects from the factory or shipping. Rotate battery up and down and shake gently, does it feel like anything is loose or shifting?
  • Practice the battery insertion several times, make sure it goes in firmly with a "click". Ensure the key(if applicable) locks and unlocks smoothly.
  • Check all cable runs - make sure if anything rubs against metal that a) the paint is protected (i.e. tape) and b) that determine if the cable needs lubricant in order to not rub a hole in the cable.
  • Check all connectors on cable ends and other electrical components look for bent pins and anything loose
  • Consider "gel" style sealant for connectors -- (Not yet sure what to use especially for lines that carry power)

Wheels:

  • With tire at 1/2 minimum pressure, massage/squeeze tires to reduce chance that the tube is pinched by the bead of the tire, then fill to normal pressure.
  • Make sure both wheels are correctly seated, ensure they are balanced to center.
  • Check if the wheels and tire are "true" both side to side and up and down. Use the "zip-tie" method to measure any wobble.

Frame:

  • Be meticulous when inserting any screws, especially into aluminum frame. Including bottle cage and rear rack bosses. If a screw doesn't go in smoothly and with ease do not force, carefully back screw out and then if there is nothing obvious, gently use a tap/die to deburr the thread (most bike shops can do this at a fee if needed)
  • Check that all bolts are firm - especially at the rear dropout, the rack(if pre-installed), and the crank arms
  • Check that all of the bolts for the pre-installed accessories on the handlebar are firm
  • Add heavy slap guard to top and bottom of the frame tube where the chain runs

Chain, breaks, and Derailleurs:

  • Check rear derailleur for both alignment and upper and lower .. um.. shift stop I think is the term. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UkZxPIZ1ngY
  • If the bike chain is sticky on the outside of the links, clean it

  • Check that all of the bolts for the pre-installed accessories on the handlebar are firm
  • If I think the bike might get wet in usage, consider adding a waterproof tape over the on-off switch for the battery. (This might have been a gen 1 battery issue, will evaluate suitability)

Post-build

  • After the 75 miles and before 150 miles, check all spokes and do quick "true" test.
  • After 100 miles and before 250 miles do another check on derailleur. Also check chain, it probably needs lubricant.
  • After heavy (battery load) use wait at least an hour before charging the battery (especially if its over 80F)