As the Old Man Winter arrives, we start pulling out our sweaters, coats, and throw blankets to keep warm. We take precautions against the harsh winter elements. But have we taken precautions to protect our bicycles from the snow?
Our bicycle means the world to us, but it’s probably the last thing we think of when we shovel the snow off our porch.
Riding your bike during the winter months doesn’t have to be difficult. In fact, it can be a breeze. Here are a handful of practical tips:
Ditch the Slicks
The last thing you want is for you to lose control and slip in the middle of the road. Replace your slicks with tires with a knobby tread pattern for better traction in the slow and slush. Depending on the conditions (and your determination to commute to work in the snow), you may also want to consider studded tires.
Clean Your Gears and Chain
During the winter, it's a good idea to clean the gears and chain of your bicycle at least once a week. Over time, sand, grit, and salt can seep into the gears and cause damage.
Grab a toothbrush and bucket of warm soapy water, and gently clean your chain. Rinse, then dry. Then apply a thin coating of lubricant to the chain to protect it from rusting. This may save your chain during the winter. It may also help you avoid the headache of needing a professional tune-up when spring arrives.
Keep an Eye on the Brakes
When rims get wet, it becomes more difficult to stop quickly and increases the stopping distance. So it's best to reduce your speed and anticipate the need to stop sooner than you would in the warmer months. As your rims pick up salt and grit from the road, brake pads can wear out faster.
Wipe Down Your Bike
After you ride your bike in the snow, it's a good idea to wipe it down with a rag. This will remove some of the build-up of salt and grit, and help prevent rust. Be sure to thoroughly wipe the rims, the tires, brakes, chain, and the cog set.
Keep Safety First
Another important thing to remember is that no matter how much experience you have, you need to prioritize your safety. Winter riding accentuates this need, so make sure you are prepared.
Be sure you have a helmet, front and rear lights, proper tires, and warm clothing. A portable mini pump, extra tube, and wrench kit will keep you prepared in case you get stranded somewhere during bad weather.
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