If you live in a warm part of the country you might pedal year round. But if you live in a place that truly experiences four seasons then you\’ll be moving your bike inside when the frost is on the pumpkin. Is there a right way to store a bike? Is there anything you need to do before you put it in the basement or the garage or the shed for the winter?

If you\’re a serious cyclist, a high-end mountain, touring or racing bike can easily cost over $3,000. Even if your investment is less, it makes sense to take care of the two wheels and frame that you enjoy riding around the neighborhood. Before you go in for the winter, here are some tips for properly storing your bike.

First – Think about it like you\’re putting your bike down for a nap. If you were going to take a nap, you probably wouldn\’t go to sleep with mud and dirt and grime all over your clothes. Before you store your bike, clean it up. Take time to wipe down the frame, rims and spokes. This easy maintenance will not only keep your bike looking sharp, but the attention to detail will help you notice any other major or minor repairs that need to be performed.

Second – If you\’re a cyclist who relies on your local bike shop for tune-ups, consider having it done before you put the bike away for the winter. There are a couple advantages to this. Your wheels will be ready to roll in the spring and you\’ll avoid the busy season at the bike shop so your turnaround will be quick.

Third – If you\’re doing the tune up yourself, lubricate the chain, gears and cables. It\’s best if you can keep your bike in a climate-controlled environment. Storing your bike in cold temperatures can cause any moisture inside the frame to condense. Condensation will eventually cause rust. So if you must store your bike in an unheated building, consult your local bike pro for a rust-proof oil that you can apply to the frame.

Fourth – Hanging your bike on the wall or ceiling is a space saving idea. Make sure you don\’t hang it from the wheels. Weight over a long period of time can distort the shape of your rims. Suspend the bike from the frame or handle bars and seat. You can purchase specialized cable and pulley systems that do the job nicely. If you\’re not hanging it up, flip it over so the tires aren\’t bearing weight.

Fifth – Whether you\’re storing your bike inside or out, keep the tires inflated. Over the winter, they will deflate a bit on their own. If you\’re storing it outside or in an unheated building, pull the wheels off and keep them inside where it\’s warm. Cold weather over several months isn\’t good for the rubber.

Sixth – Just like you\’d pull up a blanket for your nap, throw a cover over your bike when you store it. Especially if it\’s in direct sunlight. Prolonged sun exposure can dry the rubber on your tires causing them to split. The cover will also protect it from dust and the elements.

Follow these tips and when spring rolls around you\’ll be ready to roll, too.

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Are you looking for more information on Storing Bikes? Visit http://www.storagetodaysanangelo.com for your self-storage needs.

Author Bio: Are you looking for more information on Storing Bikes? Visit http://www.storagetodaysanangelo.com for your self-storage needs.

Category: Sports
Keywords: Lubbock self-storage