Every cyclist knows the feeling: those days when you just can’t find the motivation to go out for a winter ride. We all know the routine: dressing in layers to face the cold and making sure we wear warm shoe covers to protect our toes from freezing. 🥶 But let’s be honest, once you’re on the bike and back home after a refreshing ride, you’re secretly glad you went.
But what about your bike? Is it ready for winter? Read on to find out everything you need to know to prepare your bike for winter.
Why continue cycling in winter?
As temperatures drop and the days get shorter, it can be tempting to leave your bike in the garage. However, cycling in winter can be just as rewarding as in summer — as long as you’re well prepared. By paying a little more attention to your racing bike and using the right products, you can ensure smooth and efficient rides throughout the winter months.
Cycling in winter has many benefits, both mental and physical. Here are some reasons to brave the cold:
Motivation
1. Maintain your shape
By remaining consistent in your workouts, you avoid having to completely start again in the spring. Regular outings in winter help you stay fit and start the new season stronger.
3. Avoid winter depression
Exercising in the fresh air stimulates the production of endorphins and helps combat winter depression. It also improves your mood and energy level.
2. Strengthen your mental resilience
Cycling in harsh conditions like cold, wind and rain makes you mentally stronger. Overcoming the elements strengthens your determination and your self-confidence.
4. Prepare for the new season
Winter is the perfect time to focus on core training. Long, leisurely rides create a solid foundation for more intensive workouts later in the year.
With the right clothing, the right equipment and a well-maintained bike, you can continue to enjoy your rides, even in winter. Get your bike ready, put on some layers and keep training! 🚴♂️❄️
“It’s winter – Eat healthy – Train, Take care of your equipment”
Why and how to clean your bike after each winter ride.
Winter conditions cause your bike to get dirty more quickly, whether from water splashed off the road with mud and other dirt, or from salt. Your bike inevitably gets dirtier than in summer. This is why it is important to inspect your bike after each ride. If it is dirty, clean it immediately. This helps prevent chain rust or stuck parts, which should remain in smooth operation.
If your bike is very dirty, start by rinsing it with water to remove the biggest dirt. You can do this by pouring a bucket of water over your bike, using a pressure washer or a garden hose. Caution: If you use a pressure washer, be careful not to blow all the grease off your bearings, as this can result in squeaking or rusting parts.
Spray your chain, cassette and derailleur pulleys with Drivetrain Detox and scrub them with the Claw Brush or the Drivetrain Detailing Brush. Leave the Drivetrain Detox on for 2 to 3 minutes.
During this time, you can clean your frame with a mixture of Badass Bubbles soap, or spray Bio Filth Fighter or Dirt Destroy on your frame and leave for 2 to 3 minutes. Use the So Long Brush or Cone Brush to clean hard-to-reach areas. 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 any dirt and cleaning products from your bike. Tip: Use lukewarm water to keep your hands warm while cleaning.
Nazorg: what to do after cleaning your bike
Never leave your bike wet after your winter outing.
This can cause rust on your chain or lead to grinding and cracking noises in other moving parts. Always make sure to dry your bike frame with a soft cloth, such as Luxury Microfibre Polishing Cloth or Turbo Towel. You can also use a compressor to blow out your bike, but be careful not to blow the grease off your bearings.
Finally, it is of course essential to lubricate your chain. Follow the simple steps below to ensure your chain is effectively lubricated for speed, endurance and a clean drivetrain.
- Use your wax, like Slick Wax or Speed Potion Wax? Place a small drop of wax on each link, wait 2 to 3 hours, then remove the excess wax with a microfiber cloth.
- Do you use oil, like Ultra²? Spin your chain by pedaling in reverse with one hand while putting light pressure on the bottle and holding it against your moving chain. Warning: less is more when it comes to oil! Too much oil on your chain attracts more dirt, resulting in a less efficient drivetrain. You can remove excess oil with a microfiber cloth.
Finally, check your bike one last time before heading out in winter. Especially check your brakes to make sure all the dirt has been removed and everything is clean and dry. If possible, keep your bike in a dry, warm place.
Now is the time to rest, recover and motivate yourself to get back on your bike!
