How to wash your bike without wrecking it 🧼

Washing your bike is an essential part of bike maintenance, but it's crucial to do it correctly to avoid damaging any components. Unfortunately, cleaning it properly is not entirely foolproof and there are a number of ways to do more harm than good when cleaning your bike. 

The GOAT of bike repair for Park Tool, Calvin Jones,  is here to offer a step by step guide to keeping your ride in perfect condition.

Let's see how to wash your bike without wrecking it:

Materials You'll Need:

1. Water: You can use a hose, bucket, or a gentle spray from a garden hose.

2. Bike-Specific Cleaning Products: Bike-specific degreasers and cleaners are designed to be gentle on your bike's finishes while effectively removing dirt and grime.

3. Soft Brushes and Sponges: Use brushes and sponges with soft bristles to avoid scratching the bike's paint or components.

4. Bike Stand (optional): A bike stand can make the cleaning process easier by allowing you to work at a comfortable height.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Prepare Your Workspace:
- Find a flat, shaded area to work on your bike.
- Put your bike on a bike stand if you have one; if not, you can lean it against a stable surface.

2. Rinse the Bike:
- Use a hose, bucket, or gentle spray to rinse off loose dirt and grime.
- Avoid using high-pressure water as it can force water into sensitive areas like bearings and seals.

3. Apply Bike Cleaner:
- Use a bike-specific cleaner or a mild, soapy solution to apply to the frame, wheels, and drivetrain.
- Avoid getting cleaner on the braking surfaces, suspension components, or any electronic parts (if applicable).

4. Scrub Gently:
- Use soft brushes and sponges to gently scrub the frame, wheels, and drivetrain.
- Pay extra attention to areas with stubborn dirt or grease, such as the chain and cassette.

5. Clean the Drivetrain:
- Use a specific degreaser or a chain cleaning tool to clean the chain, cassette, and derailleur pulleys.
- Scrub the chain with a brush, making sure to remove all built-up grime.

6. Rinse Thoroughly:
- Rinse the bike thoroughly with clean water to remove all traces of cleaner and dirt.
- Pay attention to areas where soap or degreaser might have collected.

7. Dry the Bike:
- Use a clean, dry cloth or a towel to gently dry the bike, including the chain and drivetrain.
- Ensure that no water is left on the bike, especially in areas like the headset, bottom bracket, and hubs.

8. Lubricate and Protect:
- Once the bike is dry, lubricate the chain and other moving parts with appropriate bike lubricants.
- Apply a bike-specific protectant or wax to the frame and components to help prevent corrosion and add a shine.

9. Inspect and Tighten:
- While cleaning, take the opportunity to inspect your bike for any signs of wear or damage.
- Check for loose bolts and tighten them if necessary.

Remember that regular maintenance, including cleaning, will help extend the life of your bike and keep it in good working condition. Always consult your bike's user manual for manufacturer-specific cleaning and maintenance recommendations.

#justbelekker

Image Source: earlyrider.com