Winter riding and care
Winter riding requires a bit more care for your bike and caution on the road - plan ahead and you can keep spinning year round.
For your bike:
* Take a few minutes after a wet ride to wipe excess moisture and dirt off your frame and drive train. You don't need to make it showroom clean but getting off excess grit keeps everything running smoother.
* Check your tire pressure often. Storms bring out more road debris and proper tire pressure helps cut down on flats and protects your rims if you hit a pothole or rut.
*Keep your chain properly lubricated. If you're riding regularly, check weekly to be sure you're not running dry.
* Check your brake pads often. Running worn or gritty pads can wear down your rims prematurely. A set of brake pads is much more cost efficient than new wheels.
For you:
*Consider adding fenders. They keep the "skunk stripe" off your back and the water off your face and feet. Great options are available for any wheel size in both standard and quick release.
* Rain gear is a must. Staying warm and dry makes winter riding much more palatable.
* Watch the road! It's second nature but in the winter, avoid puddles or leaf covered surfaces. You never know what lurks below. Hitting slick leaves or discovering a pothole at the bottom of a puddle makes for nasty crashes.
* Light up even before dark. Overcast skies cut down on visibility. Turn on that blinky taillight even during the day to make sure drivers see you.