Cycling is a simple luxury and a fantastic sport. There’s nothing like riding your bike and feeling the aura of the sun on your face, the wind in your hair and the sounds of nature singing in your ears. Whether you cycle on your own or within a group, the health benefits to cycling are clear. Biking is a super way to get fit, increase your cardiovascular health and boost your emotional well-being. And there are added benefits to the environment when we cycle instead of driving our car. Not only is cycling eco-friendly, but it doesn’t increase greenhouse gases or pollute our air. With this said, whether it’s spring, summer, winter or fall, taking care of your bike is essential for making it last, and safe. With this in mind, here are a few of our essential must-do’s to keep your bike pristine and in great working condition year round.
Find the perfect storage solution for your bike
Most of us don’t have the extra space in our homes to store our bikes unless you get a little creative, for example, hang your bike on the wall and make it into artwork, or store it in your apartment stairwell or balcony. If you have a garage, you may be lucky enough to find some extra space between parked cars, ski equipment, lawn mower, snow blowers etc. You get the picture. Finding that perfect spot in your garage might be challenging. With this said, a bike hanger is ideal for maximizing vertical space in a garage. They are inexpensive options, and will use up space you’ll never miss. Even if you don’t have a garage, there are alternative storage solutions for you — consider a locker, spare room, basement, shed, or under the backyard deck. Make your bike part of your home, wherever you keep it.
Conduct a safety check on your bike
It’s essential you perform a safety check on your bike throughout the year, when you first take it out in spring, and before you store it over winter. For example, check to make sure the brakes are in good shape. Test them out. You don’t want to find yourself zooming down a hill with bike brakes that are not working! Check the frame to make sure it isn’t rusted through, cracked or bent. If there are structural problems with your bike, it might be a good time to invest in a new one.
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Revitalize an Older Bike
Instead of heading to the mall, or shopping for a new bike online, consider a gently used bike. You might be surprised to learn that there are hidden treasures at your local Waste Management Resource Center. Many people drop off their older bikes for recycling, and they may still be in very good working condition. Whether it’s kid’s toys or personal items, recycling an older bike is good for the environment. Canadian Bicycle Recycling offer free disposal and recycling of your old bike. What’s not to love about this organization!
The Importance of Proper Winter Storage
And finally, when the season comes to an end, there are a couple of things you must do. The first thing is to clean your bike. Dirt and grime will be much harder to remove in spring of next year. Suggest you grab a small bucket of soap and water. In less then ten minutes, your bike will be clean and ready to store. The second thing is to lube the chain. And finally, inspect your bike for wear and tear.
The benefits of cycling are endless. It’s a sport anyone can enjoy, regardless of your age or athletic ability. With a small amount of effort, caring for your bike is simple and easy to do year round.
