Whether you reside in a sunny region or a wet and cold region, every enthusiastic cyclist needs to take some measures to maintain their bicycle. If you live in a location that experiences constant harsh weather, it may be best to purchase a second-hand bicycle instead. Thus, this way, you can cover your new bicycle in a blanket and store it during harsh weather conditions.
However, if you wish to ride the same bicycle throughout the year, it may be a good idea to follow a few preparation tips. This way, you can keep your bicycle running smoothly. Maintaining your bicycle can have numerous benefits, especially in the long run. You will be surprised to learn that bicycles tend to run more smoothly if they are prepared with good-quality dunlop tires and maintained very well before the ride.
Mentioned below are a few tips which you can consider following, to prepare and maintain your bicycle during the winter season. Before you proceed, it may be best to learn more about the overall features of your bike, along with its design and functioning.
Some Of The Best Ways To Prepare Your Bicycle For The Winter Season
1. Consider Replacing Your Tires
You may want to go for tires resistant to wet weather conditions. Replacing your tires is one of the most important ways to prepare your bicycle during this season. Today, many stores provide tires that work well for wet ground conditions. Apart from that, they are also easier to clean and more resistant to wear and tear.
Consider opting for a tire made of heavy material which comes with a layer of anti-puncture material. These materials are usually more favorable when riding on bumpy or dirty roads. Another aspect to keep in mind is to avoid dealing with punctures during the cold season.
2. You May Want To Go Tubeless
One way you can avoid puncture is by making your tires tubeless! Setting up your tires this way can have a positive effect on the overall riding experience. Apart from that, the cyclist is also sure to feel the trail as he rides his bicycle. With an improved grip, and a lighter riding experience, getting your tires tubeless is the best idea!
3. Make Sure To Select The Right Pressure For Your Tire
It is usually best to go for comparatively lesser tire pressure since it provides more traction and comfort. Choosing the correct pressure for your tires can have a positive impact on your riding experience. Many people believe keeping the tires low on pressure can result in punctures. However, this is merely a myth.
4. Cleanliness Is Indeed The Key Aspect
Once you have enjoyed riding your bicycle, consider cleaning it right away! Since wet dust is comparatively easier to clean, one can easily keep their bicycle clean for long periods. You can also consider applying a thin wax layer on top of the frame to protect it from damage. After you have finished cleaning your bike, make sure to dry it properly as well!
5. Keep The Chain Prepared
After your riding experience, make sure to wipe your bicycle chain clean. You can use grease or even a good lube. It may be crucial to avoid using wet lube since it can make the cleaning process messier. Apart from that, the chain may also end up collecting most dust over time. Thus, you can use a good quality chain wax instead. During the monsoon season, it may be beneficial to apply an additional layer of chain wax the day before you plan to ride.
6. Make Sure To Focus On The Small Bolts
Your bicycle has numerous small bolts in various regions. Before the winter season starts, it may be beneficial for you to consider greasing all these bolts. Since small bolts can rust easily in a wet condition, keeping the material well-protected can come a long way! Today, numerous online stores and physical bicycle markets provide high-quality products that can keep the bolts protected for longer periods!
7. Check The Safety Of Cables As Well As Brake Pads
Before the cold season starts, you may want to check the safety of the cables on your bicycle. If you find them worn out, consider replacing them or getting them fixed. As for brake pads, watch out for any wear and tear.
Today, two kinds of brake pads are available in bicycle stores. The first one is the Resin pad, which is made of organic material and offers good braking capacity. However, resin pads quickly deteriorate during wet weather conditions. The second one is the metal brake pads, which are made of a comparatively harder material that deteriorates slowly. The only issue with metal brake pads is that they make a squeaky sound when wet.
8. Accessorize Your Bicycle During The Winter Season
You can add mudguards to your bicycle so that many of your friends can have an enjoyable riding experience. Apart from that, mudguards can also prevent the development of extra wear on rim brakes. However, you must consider opting for good-quality mudguards for your precious bicycle.
9. Spring Clean
When you ride in wet and dirty conditions, you might need to focus on even the most insignificant parts of your bicycle. You must strip down every piece of your bike and regrease it. Greasing the bracket, headset, and everything in contact with the wet ground is extremely crucial, especially during this season.
10. Headlights To Stay Safe On The Road
You can ride your bicycle effortlessly whenever you go out during the winter season. It may be best to add a high-quality headlight onto your bike so that you can alert the others on the road, besides getting a clear vision of the path ahead.
Conclusion
Indeed, nobody would want to jeopardize their riding experience because of a weather change. You can now ride your bicycle during the winter season without worrying about your bicycle getting damaged. Let the upcoming winter season be the beginning of a new riding experience!