As temperatures start to drop and the first snowflakes begin to fall, a long and eventful cycling season draws to a close. If you're not a year-round cyclist, now is the time to think about proper winter storage. Simply parking your bike in the basement won't be enough. But don’t worry — thanks to our tips and tricks, the effort is minimal, and you'll be ready to hit the road again with ease come spring.
To avoid any unpleasant surprises in the spring, we recommend a complete check before storing your bike for the winter. There's nothing more frustrating than having to cancel or postpone your first ride because your bike isn’t ready for use.
Store your bike in a cool, dry place over the winter. It doesn’t have to be inside your home; a basement or garage will work just fine. The key is to ensure the space is dry, frost-free, and well-ventilated.
If you don’t have an ideal storage space, you can protect your bike from moisture using blankets and tarps. There are also specialized "bike garages" available online. The best option is to store it near a wall or under a shelter to shield it from the elements.
E-Bike Tip: In winter, you should store the battery and the bike computer of your E-bike separately from the bike, as the battery is sensitive to extreme temperatures. Ideally, the battery charge should be between 30% and 60%. Be sure to check it every two months to avoid deep discharge.
Before storing your bike for the winter, give it a thorough cleaning. Remove dust and dirt, as these can lead to rust and cause the brakes and gears to wear out more quickly.
When cleaning, make sure to use the right cleaning products, as harsh cleaners can damage the tires and paint. For the frame and wheels, regular dish soap will suffice. If the chain is heavily soiled, you can lubricate it with penetrating oil. After cleaning all parts carefully, dry your bike thoroughly. The drier the bike, the better the spray oil will adhere to components like the gear cables or brake joints. As the final step, lubricate the bike chain with oil or wax. Be careful not to let any oil come into contact with the brake discs.
In addition to storing bikes with disc brakes upright, it's often recommended to store them with the disc brakes engaged. There are two reasons for this:
However, you should be careful when securing the brake levers with zip ties. The pressure buildup could potentially lead to wear. To prevent this, you can cushion the brake levers.
Tip: Despite taking all precautions, it's a good idea to check the brake response before your first ride in the spring. If the brakes feel sluggish, pull the brake lever a few times quickly in succession. This will help restore the pressure point to its normal position.
A service appointment before winter helps identify and address any issues early, ensuring you're ready for your first ride in the spring. The professional will inspect the paint, assess the condition of the chain, pedals, and other components, and replace them if needed.
For bikes that are used frequently, it's a good idea to take them for a professional service 1–2 times a year.
