Prepare your bike for winter: the right gestures (and when to call in a pro)

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A clean sweep before the cold.

Before the cold weather sets in, give your bike a good clean!

A bucket of warm water, a soft sponge and a little soap are all you need to remove mud, dust and traces of grease. Dry well, especially metal areas: winter humidity accelerates corrosion.

Tip: take this opportunity to spot any tired or rusty parts - they'll be worth checking in the workshop.

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Chain and transmission: lubrication is protection.

Salt and rain are metal's enemies. Degrease the chain, sprockets and derailleur pulleys, then apply a special "wet conditions" oil.

Rotate the pedals to distribute the lubricant evenly, and wipe off any excess.

Our advice: If the chain jumps often or makes noise, it may be time to change it - a workshop will be able to check the wear accurately.

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Brakes: an essential check.

Test your brakes before winter. Worn pads, glazed pads or seized cables can quickly become dangerous on wet roads.

Check that braking is smooth and symmetrical.

Our advice: When in doubt (or when bleeding hydraulic brakes), it's best to leave the bike in the hands of a professional: precise adjustment is your best guarantee of safety.

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Tires: grip first.

Tires suffer in winter: slippery ground, gravel, debris.

Choose wider tires, slightly less inflated for better grip, or soft-compound "winter" models.

Our advice: Don't forget to check the condition of the sidewalls for glass splinters. In the workshop, a technician can advise you on the best compromise between comfort, strength and performance, depending on your riding style.

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Visibility and lighting: never go unnoticed again.

As the days get shorter and visibility drops, make sure you're well seen. Check your front and rear lights, recharge the batteries and clean the reflectors. A reflective vest or accessories can make all the difference.

Our tip: Some workshops offer to install powerful dynamo-powered fixed lighting - a good investment for daily commuting.

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Protect and store

Finally, remember to apply a protective spray to the frame and exposed parts.

If you leave your bike outside, a waterproof cover will prevent premature rusting.

For an electric-assist bike, store the battery indoors, at room temperature.

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A little care, a lot of serenity

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Maintaining your bike before winter means longer life and safer riding.

And if you want to go even further - for a complete check-up, brake adjustment, cable change or winter tire fitting - don't hesitate to visit a Bicycode partner bike workshop.

A professional will see what the cyclist's eye doesn't always see... and you'll leave ready to face winter with confidence.

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