I've been working on a Peugeot build where I'm getting a lot of re-use of existing parts.

But whatever type of build it is, I normally ride on my little side street (about 1/2 mile round trip) about 5 times. After each ride, I put it back on the stand and check things out.

Then.... as I did today... do a maiden voyage of 5-10 miles.

If I'm really nervous, I'll do the trip in a circle around my house, so if things don't work out at any point I can walk the bike home.

However, today I was reckless. I did a 12 mile trip downtown and back. Everything working perfectly, except for one annoying creak that sounds like a spoke twisting.

Anyway... what kind of first rides do you do to check out your builds?