Regularly cleaning your bike will prolong its life. Regularly removing dirt and dust from your bike reduces wear and tear on its components. To make sure you clean your bike properly, here are a few tips and steps I recommend:
First, prepare the equipment. You’ll need lukewarm water, mild soap, a soft brush, clean rags, a used toothbrush, chain lubricant, degreaser (if available) and a bicycle pump.
Deflate tires
Before you start cleaning, deflate the tires slightly to facilitate access to the various parts of the bike.
Remove coarse dirt and cleanand clean components
Use a soft brush to remove dirt, mud and coarse debris from the surface of the frame, wheels, chain and components. You can also use lukewarm water to facilitate the process.
Use mild soap diluted in lukewarm water to clean components such as chain, derailleurs, brakes and chainrings. Use a used toothbrush to access hard-to-reach areas. Avoid using high-pressure water jets, as this can damage bearings and seals.
Rinse thoroughly andscale the bike
Once you’ve finished cleaning the components, rinse your bike thoroughly with clean water to remove all soap residues.
Use clean, dry cloths to wipe your bike thoroughly. Be sure to dry all metal parts to prevent corrosion.
Lubricate chain and components
Once the bike is dry, apply a quality lubricant to the chain, derailleurs and other moving parts. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations in terms of lubricant type and quantity.
Inflate tires
Use a bicycle pump to reinflate the tires to the recommended pressure indicated on the sidewall.
Store your bike properly
If you don’t plan to use your bike for a long time, be sure to store it in a dry, moisture-free place to avoid damage.
Tip – Grease or oil?
Grease and oil are two lubricants with two very distinct uses: grease is thick and is useful for the internal mechanical parts of the bike (bearings, threads, seatposts, etc.). Grease binds dirt and is therefore unsuitable for contact with air. Oil, on the other hand, is fluid and allows you to lubricate open-air parts (chain, cassette, brake calipers, derailleurs and cables).
In short, regular cleaning of your bike will prolong its life. Regularly removing dirt and dust from your bike reduces wear and tear on its components.
Don’t hesitate to contact me if you’d like to opt for peace of mind by letting me take care of your bikes on a regular basis.
