We know how important your bike is to you, but sooner or later there comes a time when you decide to take a break. It may be due to an injury (we hope not), because you've purchased a new model, or simply because you want to take a break from your hobby. Whatever the reason, a big question arises: what is the best way to store your bike so it's protected and ready when you decide to use it again?
Proper storage is key to keeping both mountain bikes and road bikes in perfect condition. Factors such as humidity, available space, and the length of time it will remain unused can affect its preservation.
That's why we've put together some essential tips so you can store your bike in the best possible way. Whether you're putting it away for a few days or for a long period, here you'll find the best practices to ensure your bike will be in optimal condition when you decide to ride again. 🚴♂️🔧
Keep it away from humidity and light
Choose a covered place as far away as possible from the elements. If you have a garage or a room where you keep a small workshop with bike-related materials, use it. Make sure there are no water leaks or dampness and that condensation does not occur. If the room or space has a window, avoid direct sunlight falling on the bike. If you store it with other objects, make sure there is no risk of anything falling on it that could damage it.
Is it better to cover the bike?
Covering our bike has the advantage that it increases its protection and shields it from dust, which can affect its various components more than it seems. Use a waterproof cover that is easy to store and unfold. You can choose from many models in different colors, materials, and closures (zipper, velcro, etc.).
What is the best rack?
There's no problem simply leaving the bike leaning against the wall, but if you opt to use a rack, you can choose from a wide variety of models: individual or for several bikes, floor or wall-mounted, even ceiling racks... Choose the one that best suits your available space, always making sure the rack can support the weight of your best friend and that you have easy access to it.
Should I use a lock?
Although you keep your bicycle in your own home, it is always advisable to protect it with an anti-theft device. In the unfortunate event that you suffer a theft at home, it will be easier not to lose it. However, make sure that the anti-theft system does not put stress on any component of the bicycle if you plan to store it for a long time.
Before storing it, take it to the workshop
You don't want to find an unpleasant surprise when you ride it again, right? Giving it a full check-up before saying goodbye for a while is the best way to avoid this. Pay special attention to the following components:
- Wheels. Tires, rims, spokes, and hub are the cardinal points of your wheels. Check that they are not damaged and clean them to remove any dirt. Neither the hub nor the spokes should have any play.
- Steering and gears. The steering bearings should be clean and greased, while for the gears we should check the condition of the pulleys and lubricate the bearings of the derailleur wheels.
- Drivetrain (Bottom bracket, derailleur, chainring, cassette, pedals, and chain). The driving part of the bicycle is especially sensitive to the passage of time. Check that the bottom bracket does not contain water. Use degreaser for these components and check and tighten the bolts.
- Brake pads and calipers. The former can be sanded to remove any dirt and mud. The brake calipers must be well adjusted.
- Others. Check that the cables are not frayed. It is also a good time to clean the handlebar tape.
Last maintenance tricks
Don't forget that the cables can become loose if you don't use the bike for a long time. A trick to avoid this is to engage the smallest cog so that the derailleur spring does not lose tension. To prevent the brake calipers from losing tension, they can be released from the lever. We can also cover the chain with neutral petroleum jelly which will protect it from rust. If we have a leather saddle, we can apply a special treatment for that material to keep it in the best condition during the time it spends in storage.
Tuvalum Team
