Bike Maintenance for Autumn/Winter

Basics of Bike Maintenance for the Autumn/Winter
As the summer days are getting shorter, we need to adapt our bikes, and equipment to suit the weather conditions that we are bound to come across for the coming months.
These are a few quick pointers and tips of how to prepare and maintain your bike over the autumn/winter. This should be done in between services, which we advise to have done after every 3500km (approximately).


Tyres

• Know your pressure, check regularly. The pressure varies from bike to bike, so ensure you know the correct pressure and check weekly.
  
• Surface: Is your tyre worn and in need of replacing? Check this as you do your pressure check.
  
• Damage: Are there any cracks/splits in your tyre that could cause a puncture? Know what to look out for. Check after every spin to prevent thorns (from hedge cutting) from bedding in to the tyre.
  

Washing your bike

• Where to start? We usually recommend starting at the top, but if you’re unsure, check out our quick video on the bike maintenance part of our website for hints on www.worldwidecycles.com
  
• What products to use? We sell a range of products, and most customers like to get a kit with all the cleaners in the one box at the beginning, and then go from there as they use the products.
  
• How often should you wash your bike? Approximately once per week if you are cycling about 3/4 days a week. With the weather conditions in the Autumn/Winter you will need to pay paticular attention to the bottom bracket/crank area to prevent and build up of grit/salt.
  

Chain Maintenance

• As you wash your bike, pay close attention to your chain, ensuring all the dirt/salt from the road is washed away frequently.
  
• Oil your chain regularly using a quality oil that is specific for chains.
  
• Check for wear/damage on your chain, and get it changed at the first sign of trouble to avoid any breaks or unnecessary wear to correcponding components. We recommend changing your chain after 2000 km.
  

Winter Accessories

• Mudguards: Not always the most attractive attachment on a bike, but can save time on washing your cycling kit after a couple of hours on the bike, when used on wet days.
  
• Lights: These are probably the most essential accessory at this time of the year, always have a rear light at least. There is such a choice out there at the minute; there is a type that is suitable for every person/bike. Decide between battery operated or rechargeable.
  
• Hi-Vis Jackets: These are very important also, Be Safe, Be Seen.
  
• Helmets: The essential part of every cycling kit.
  
• Saddle Bag: An emergency kit but also a place to keep a few euros in case of an emergency (e.g. food/drink/phone call).
  

And last, but not least, Road Safety

• Be aware of motorists at all times, if you can, make eye contact, and use your hand signals.
  
• Train in pairs or small groups, safety in numbers (and good for motivation too).
  
• Let family or colleagues know your route when heading off training, and also your ETA, so they can keep an eye out for your safe return.
  
• Even in an extreme circumstance where a motorist has made a mistake, and you have been forced into a dangerous situation, try to remain calm and don’t put yourself in further danger. When it’s a bike V’s a car, usually the car will win out. Report any/all serious incidents to the police.
  

We at Worldwide Cycles appreciate your continued support and look forward to seeing ye all out on the bike, or in the shop, in the future.
Ray & Team.