Winter is (finally) moving in, and with it, thoughts about winter biking. Here are a few tips, including some on storing your bike in the winter.

• Wear lights and reflective clothing to make yourself as visible as possible to vehicles that may not be expecting winter cyclists (LED lights are brighter and more efficient than halogen lights).
• Either remove oil completely from chain and derailleur, or switch to chainsaw grease (Oil should be removed from the bike because it will seize in freezing temps). Chainsaw oil can be added to the chain to prevent rust. Apply frugally to save oil (and your outerwear).
• Clean bike components regularly with dish soap and water to avoid any build-up.
• Vigilantly check fenders (if installed) for snow build-up. In the instance where the region is consistently getting hit with copious amounts of snow, then remove fenders.
• Remove or disable front brake to avoid (1) Going head first over the handlebars or (2) endangering your life if your front tires slides out from underneath you.
• Use studded tires where feasible. A decent set of snow tires will cost approx. $100/tire. However, you can make your own DIY studded tires.
• Use the narrowest tires possible to avoid floating. In snowy conditions, increase air pressure to cut through snow. In icy conditions, reduce air pressure in tires.
• Try covering your handlebars to keep your hands warm.

Storing your bike this winter?

• Either hang the bike up by its frame or, when hanging by tires, be sure to rotate tires monthly to avoid warping the rim.
• Before storing your bike, add as much air as possible to your tires to avoid the rubber cracking -- adding some Vaseline along the sides of your tires can be helpful for avoiding cracks in your rubber as well.

Last Updated on Wednesday, 13 January 2010 22:02