Every cyclist knows the feeling: those days when you just can’t find the motivation to head outside and take on that winter ride. We all know the routine—layering up to brace the cold and making sure you’ve got warm overshoes to keep your toes from freezing. 🥶 But let’s be honest, once you’re on the bike and return home after a refreshing ride, you’re secretly glad you went.
But what about your bike? Is it ready for the winter? Read on to find out everything you need to know to get your bike winter-ready.
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Why keep cycling in Winter?
As the temperatures drop and the days get shorter, it can be tempting to leave your bike tucked away in the shed. But cycling in winter can be just as rewarding as riding in the summer — as long as you're prepared. By giving your road bike a little extra attention and using the right products, you can ensure smooth, efficient rides throughout the winter months.
Cycling during winter has many benefits, both mentally and physically. Here are some reasons to brave the cold:
Motivation
1. Maintain your fitness
By staying consistent with your training, you avoid starting from scratch in spring. Regular winter rides help you stay fit and enter the new season stronger.
2. Build mental resilience
Riding in challenging conditions like cold, wind, and rain makes you mentally tougher. Conquering the elements boosts your determination and confidence.
3. Avoid the Winter Blues
Exercising in fresh air stimulates endorphin production and helps ward off the winter blues. It also improves your mood and energy levels.
4. Prepare for the new season
Winter is the ideal time to focus on base training. Longer, steady rides lay a strong foundation for more intense workouts later in the year.
With the right clothing, gear, and a well-maintained bike, you can keep enjoying your rides even in winter. Get your bike ready, layer up, and keep training! 🚴♂️❄️
"Winter cycling is here - Eat clean, train hard, care for your gear "
Why and how to clean your bike after every winter ride
Winter conditions cause your bike to get dirty faster, whether it's from splashing water on the road with mud and other debris, or from brine. Your bike inevitably gets dirtier than in the summer. That’s why it’s important to inspect your bike after every ride. If it's dirty, clean it right away. This helps prevent your chain from rusting or parts from seizing up that should remain smoothly functioning.
If your bike is very dirty, start by rinsing it with water to remove the worst grime. You can do this by pouring a bucket of water over your bike, using a pressure washer, or a garden hose. Note: If you use a pressure washer, be careful not to blast all the grease out of your bearings, as this could lead to squeaky or rusting parts.
Spray your chain, cassette, and derailleur pulleys with Drivetrain Detox and scrub them with the Claw Brush or Drivetrain Detailing Brush. Allow the Drivetrain Detox to soak in for 2–3 minutes.
Meanwhile, you can clean your frame using a soapy mix of Badass Bubbles, or spray Bio Filth Fighter or Dirt Destroy on your frame and let it sit for 2–3 minutes as well. Use a So Long Brush or Cone Brush to reach tight spots. You can clean the frame and wheels with the Microfibre Bike Cleaning Glove or the Soft Washing Brush.
Rinse your chain and frame with water to remove all the dirt and cleaning products from your bike. Tip: Use warm water to keep your hands warm while you work.
After care: what to do after cleaning your bike
Never leave your bike wet after your winter ride.
This can cause rust on your chain or lead to squeaks and creaks in other moving parts. Always make sure to dry your bike frame with a soft cloth, such as the Luxury Microfibre Polishing Cloth or Turbo Towel. You can also use a compressor to blow dry your bike, but be careful not to blow out the grease from your bearings.
Lastly, of course you need to lube your chain. Follow the easy steps below to ensure effective lubing of your chain for speed, endurance and a clean drivetrain.
Ensure your chain is completely dry
Are you using wax like Slick Wax or Speed Potion Wax? Drip a small droplet of wax on every link, wait 2-3 hours and remove excess wax with a clean microfibre cloth.
Are you using oil such as Ultra²? Move your chain by pedaling backwards with one hand while lightly squeezing the bottle, holding it against your moving chain. Beware: less is more when using oil! Applying too much oil on your chain makes it attract more dirt leading to a less efficient drivetrain. You can remove excess oil with a microfibre cloth.
Finally, give your bike a last check before you can go further with cycling in winter, especially your brakes to see if you've removed all dirt and everything is clean and dry. If possible, store your bike in a dry and warm place.
After that, rest, recover and get motivated to ride again!
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