Give your frame a wipe
While you’re wiping down your frame after you’ve washed your bike, keep a look out for scratches, stresses on the frame, and metal fatigue. Pro-tip: Make notes of anything you want your LBC to take a look at in the spring.
True your wheels
There’s no better feeling than getting your summer bike out of storage, pumping up the tyres and being able to drop the hammer while your bike makes a b-line straight for the horizon – without a wobble.
Pump your tyres
Don’t let your tyres and inner tubes bear the weight of the frame – otherwise you risk your wheel rims damaging them with undue stress.
Lube the chain and cables
Don’t forget to re-lube up your bike after its wash – this will prevent rust, and keep it looking bright and clean.
Prepare the storage space
Make sure there’s nothing that will fall on or lean against your bike. Take special care to keep your spokes free from objects in your storage space that might wreck the true of your wheels – try not to pile your bikes on top of each other and use bike racks where you can.
Control the humidity
Use dehumidifiers to keep moisture away and further prevent rusting. You can use electric dehumidifiers, or chemical crystal dehumidifiers, or do what my dad used to do – a bucket full of scrunched up newspaper.
No life till leather
Wipe your Brooks saddle and check your diary for the last time you applied Proofide. Make sure you read the manufacturer´s guidance on caring for your leather, you don’t want cracked saddles or bar tape bringing you down in spring.
Make a purchase list
Check your brake pads – do you need to have new ones ready for the spring? When was the last time you changed your tyres? Have you got a couple of spare inner tubes? You’re much more likely to get on that bike if you know the spares are ready and the tyres are brand new. When the sunshine returns, knowing you’ve got a bike (or two) in top condition is all the motivation you’ll need.
