With all the amazing opportunities that come along with cold weather—skiing, ice skating, bonfires—it also limits some of our favorite activities. Outdoor swimming is out. Triathlon season is on ice. Then, there are cyclists. In some parts of the country, outdoor cycling isn’t really an option if you want to have any sort of predictable, productive cycling life. But, if you’re going to be stationary bound for a few months, what do you do with your bike? Well, we’ve got some helpful tips!
- Temperature control is ideal. If you have a heated garage, attic, or other storage area, your bike will avoid the internal condensation associated with the swing from cold night to warmer day. This moisture inside the frame of steel frame can lead to rust.
- Avoid the sun. Whatever your storage choice, constant sunlight on your tires can cause cracking and a general degrading of the rubber. The wear will require you to replace your tires immediately in the spring, or run the risk of your tires failing you when you need it least—mid-race or 20 miles into a 40-mile trek through the backcountry.
- If no heat, prepare accordingly. For a steel bike, you’ll need to apply a rust prohibiting oil to avoid damage to your frame. Go ahead and lube the chain and cables as well to protect against constant change in heat/cold and the resulting moisture.
- Wheels up! Regardless of where your bike will be holed-up, make sure those tires are up. Yes, your tires will still deflate while in storage. But, having them off the ground—and the weight of the bike off of them—will keep them in proper form. If the weight of the bike is left to rest on the deflated tires, you’ll inevitably experience breakages and weak spots on your tires.
- Tag team with a beater. So, maybe you don’t store the bike away all season. But, if you’re preferred bike is a pricey number you’d rather keep in good condition, consider taking the roughed-up ride you just can’t part with out on the road for slushy, muddy, who-knows-how-many-times-I’ll-slip days. It keeps your preferred bike in use and you attuned to its handling while avoiding the extra wear and tear these nasty months can bring.
We know, Mr. Miami, you’re still riding in shorts in January! But, for those digging out of snow every few days, we hope this information helps. Any other tips? Do you use an indoor exercise bike in the winter, or rack your road bike to keep in touch? Tell us what works for you! You can connect in the comments section below, or chat us up at our other homes on the web—we’re on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Keep in touch and, if you’ve been wondering what all this HOTSHOT buzz is about, stop by our website to order yours today or to find retail locations near you.
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