Preparing the bike for the season - how to go about it?

It’s still winter outside the window, but it’s worth thinking about preparing your bike for the season now. You can then plan the inspection with peace of mind and order the necessary accessories so you don’t overpay at the stationary store. Most importantly, when the warmer days arrive, your unicycle will be waiting ready to ride! Wondering what preparing your bike for the season should look like? You can find basic information in our article today.

Thorough washing of the frame

Start preparing your bike for the season by thoroughly washing the frame. If the unicycle has stood unused for several months, a solid layer of dust has certainly accumulated on it. You can reach for a pressure washer or a bucket of warm water and a cloth or sponge.

Read more about proper bicycle cleaning in the article How and with what to wash your bike?

Cleaning and lubricating the chain

If you want your first spring ride to be without unpleasant squeaks and rasps, remember to clean your chain when preparing your bike for the season. Take it off and dip it in a bottle of extraction gasoline or at least wipe it thoroughly with a cloth soaked in degreaser. Then reach for special chain oil and apply a drop to each link. Finally, remember to wipe off excess oil from the outside of the links to avoid dirt sticking. You can also use the same agent to lubricate derailleurs.

Checking tire pressure

If the bike has stood unused all winter, there is a good chance that the tires need to be inflated. Riding on too low a pressure is not only tiring, but can cause an inner tube to burst. Start by checking what parameters the manufacturer recommends – most often the information is on the side of the tire. Then add the appropriate amount of air, using a pump with a pressure gauge. If you don’t have one in your garage, you can always visit a gas station.

Lubrication of the shock absorber

Before the season, it is also worth taking care of the shock absorber. Too little grease negatively affects its operation and accelerates the wear of parts, so it is definitely worth it. After removing the rubber protectors, apply a few drops of special shock absorber oil to the arms each. The best will be an agent that has Teflon in its composition.

Brake control

Efficient brakes are the basis for safe riding, so checking them is a mandatory part of preparing your bike for the season. If your unicycle is equipped with a jaw model, check whether the pads need replacing, and clean the rims. For disc brakes, on the other hand, remember to degrease the discs thoroughly. You will learn how to do this from the article Cleaning the brake discs on a bicycle. See how easy it is.

Inspection of cables and armor

When preparing your bike for the season, also remember to inspect all cables and armor carefully, and then lightly lubricate them. This is important because derailleurs and brakes will not operate smoothly if the cables are rusty, bent or clogged with mud. Even minor signs of corrosion qualify them for replacement, especially since it can be done at a really low cost.

Tightening all screws

Finally, once the frame is clean and all components are working as they should, check the screws at the joints for looseness. Pay special attention to the pedals, bottom bracket axle and rudders. If necessary, reach for a screwdriver or allen and take up the slack.

Bicycle stand – a do-it-yourselfer’s best friend

Preparing your bike for the season will go much more smoothly if you have a sturdy bike rack or hanger. At RTR Bikes you will find a wide selection of such accessories. The Brutus series, on the other hand, are exceptionally stable bicycle stands that will work even when cleaning the unicycle with a pressure washer.

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