Everything in tiptop condition

As the weather gets wetter and our bikes and kit get muddier with every ride, cleaning and keeping everything in good condition becomes crucial. Everyone wants to keep their bike and kit at optimum performance and keeping it all clean is one of the easiest and most effective ways of doing so. Here are some of the things I do to try and keep everything in tiptop condition.

You can use a hose or jet wash for simpler components like tyres; but bearings, bushes, brakes and suspension seals need to be treated differently as they can be damaged if grit and dirt get forced into the moving parts. I recommend spraying them with a cleaner such as Muc-Off and then scrubbing them gently with a brush, before rinsing them. You can get some really good brushes with soft bristles specifically designed to help clean your bike while preventing it from getting scratched. Next turn your attention to the drive chain. If it is not spotless your gears will not shift as quickly.

Spray a degreaser onto your cassette and vigorously scrub it with a small brush. Rinse it well afterwards. Using a product like Muc-Off Chain Doc on your chain is all you need to do to protect it. Remember to add more chain lubricant after you have finished cleaning it to prevent the chain from rusting. Once your bike is clean, spray it with Muc-Off Silicone Spray or an equivalent. Not only does this make you bike shine as if it just come out of the box, but it prevents mud and dirt from sticking onto it next time you ride. If you have disc brakes it is important to remember not to let any silicone spray (or polish) get on the discs, because It is a lubricant!

As far as kit goes there is nothing like a good scrubbing! I always wipe my helmet and neck brace with a Muc-Off Microfinder Polishing Cloth to really make them shine.

Wiggle have a great range of products for cleaning and keeping your bike and kit in top condition. Enjoy your riding this winter.

Finn