During the winter months, it can be a challenge to keep your bike clean due to frequent bad weather. However, it is especially important to keep it clean in winter, as the mud, salt and other types of dirt will accelerate wear on your bike and components. Which we naturally want to avoid.
Contents
Step 1: Remove coarse dirt
Start by rinsing any visible dirt, mud, or grime from the frame and all components using water from a hose or bucket. Be sure to pay attention to the crevices and corners, as these areas are prone to accumulating dirt and grime. However, avoid hitting your bearings with high pressure water, as you may remove the grease from them, reducing their lifespan significantly.
Step 2: Cleaning
Now, spray your bike with a good bike cleaner such as Bio Filth Fighter or Dirt Destroy to help loosen and remove stuck-on grime. Spray it directly onto the grime or dirt and wait for 2 or 3 minutes. After that, you could easily wipe off any grime or dirt from your bike. Use a soft brush for your frame, so it would not do any harm to your paintwork. You could also use our Cone Brush, to get into the tight areas.
Step 3: Rinsing
Once you have removed as much dirt and grime as possible, use a hose or bucket of water to thoroughly rinse off your bike. Want to know how to clean your bike without an outdoor water tap and no garden hose? Read it here!
Step 4: Degreasing the drivetrain
One important aspect of cleaning your bike in the winter is maintaining your drivetrain. These components can accumulate a lot of dirt, grime, and moisture, which can lead to reduced performance and increased wear. First, use a degreaser like our Drivetrain Detox or Chain Cleaner to loosen and remove any oil residue, dirt, or grime. Wait a few minutes, so the degreaser can do its magic! Then use a brush to scrub the components and rinse them with water. Once the drivetrain and chain are clean and dry, apply your favourite lubricant.
Step 5: Storing
Once your frame and drivetrain are dry and clean, store your bike in a dry, well-ventilated place to help prevent rust and corrosion. If you don’t have a garage or shed, consider using a bike cover to protect your bike from the elements.
Important notice
When cycling in winter, there is a good chance you will run into brine on your rides. Brine is a mixture of salt and water that is commonly used to melt ice on roads and sidewalks. It can be very damaging to bike frames and all other components if it is not removed as soon as possible. By following the steps above you greatly reduce the risk of the brine damaging your bike. If left on your bike, the brine may damage your paintwork, dissolve lubricants and greases and cause corrosion.
By following these steps, you can help keep your bike clean and well-maintained throughout the winter months. Cause, a clean bike is a fast bike. If you have any questions, feel free to ask in our chat, we are happy to help.
Products featured in this blog
Pictures are taken by LisasBunteWelt.
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