| Maggie's Tips
& Techniques
Why sit around indoors looking longingly out the window
waiting for spring to break and flowers to sprout, when
this is one of the most beautiful times of year to be
outdoors? Spending these next few months inside turns
this beautiful changing of seasons into a depressing
time that will only drag on and on.
This is the time when the trails are a patchwork quilt
of colors, constantly changing. Riding at this time
of the year is filled with the excitement of something
new, it is fresh and brisk; the cool air is refreshing.
Try it out. Go for a ride. Your body and mind will thank
you.
Ride Prepared
Winter riding is never easy on your bicycle. Rain and
mud work together to cut your chain and lock up your cables.
Road salts corrosive properties will accelerate wear and
tear on your bike. You can make your bicycle investment
last a lot longer if you follow a few easy steps after
a sloppy ride. First make sure your bike is clean and
dry. Then, remove the seatpost and turn the bike upside
down. This allows water to drain and helps prevent rust
in the bottom bracket or inside the frame tubing.
| Four
Tips to Prepare and Maintain Your Bike This
Winter |
1.
Grease hubs, bottom bracket and headset
|
2.
Pull and grease crankbolts, pedals,
and other important bolts prone to seize
|
3.
Use PTFE lubricant (GT85, LPS, Spin
Lube) on cables, in housing, deraileur pivots,
brake lever and caliper pivots.
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4.
Clean and lubricate your chain more
ofter than usual
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Ride to See and Be Seen
Riding in the dark is almost unavoidable as the days
get shorter. Whether you are commuting or riding in
the woods a night ride can be a lot of fun, but it can
also be dangerous.
- Reflective clothes
- Red blinking light on back
- Spot or white strobe on front
The more light you have, the faster you can ride through
the woods. Come in and check out TurboCat lighting systems.
Ride Warm
Extending the riding season is totally dependent on
being comfortable when you ride. Proper clothing will
keep you safe and let you focus on something other than
your frozen fingers. Dressing properly for the temperature
takes practice but here are a few tips to get you started.
- Sweat is your enemy.
- Layering allows you to take something off, as you
warm up, so you don't sweat.
- Wear enough clothing to feel cool at the start of
the ride. If you start out too warm you will sweat
(tip #1)
- A waterproof layer will allow you to ride all winter
long, just try not to sweat
- Extremities will get colder faster, so keep your
little toesis bundled up.
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