Clean bikes are not only beautiful to look at, but they also work better and travel even faster, or so it seems. Here are some tips on the most suitable techniques.
Steps
Step 1. Find a way to hold the bike upright, you can use a repair stand, the bike stand, or lean it against a tree or rocks
Anything that allows you to keep it straight is fine.
Step 2. Rinse it quickly with water to remove excess dirt and grime
Step 3. Use a spray solvent, such as a carburetor cleaner or WD40, to degrease the chain, shift rings and entire drive system
To be sure, spray the solvent between each link in the chain.
Step 4. Now it's time to focus on the area around the chain to remove the degreaser and all the grime that you have dissolved with soap and water
If you want an even more thorough cleaning, use a brush dipped in water only. You can skip this step if you don't feel like getting too dirty with the chain or if you don't have a lubricant available to grease it later.
Step 5. With the help of a sponge and soapy water, wash the frame
Sprinkle it with more water and repeat the process if necessary.
Step 6. Remember to pass the sponge on the wheels as well, you can lift them by placing them on a bucket so that they are completely clean
Step 7. Rinse the entire bike
Step 8. Dry the bike with two different types of rags, one for the frame and other clean parts, and another, which you don't care about damaging, to dab the greasy chain and gears
Also use the second rag to dry the wheel rims where the brake pads may have left some rubber residue.
Step 9. Add any chemicals you find useful (chain lube and wax just like you do for cars)
Advice
- When you're done, wax the bike frame (even the fork if it's painted) using a high quality automotive product. Follow the instructions on the package. This way your bike will be shiny and protected. Do not spread the wax on places where it is difficult to remove.
- Instead of washing it, you can quickly clean it with a damp cloth and some type of polish. This is an excellent solution, if it is not too dirty.
- While you wash it, fully inspect the bike to check for any problems. Repair or replace damaged parts when you're done cleaning.
- If you don't have a garden hose, you can use buckets of water.
- Remove the larger pieces of mud before starting the wash.
- To oil the chain, take a brush and smear it with a degreaser or liquid soap to remove the residue of the previous grease. Rinse it off and then get a lubricant. If it's a spray product, spray all the chain links as you turn the pedals. If it is a liquid product in the bottle, without applying any pressure, turn it upside down with the opening above the links and as the liquid flows, turn the pedals to lubricate the entire chain. In both cases, take some kitchen paper and remove the excess lubricant while turning the pedals.
Warnings
- Dry the bike by hand, do not leave it wet.
- Be careful when scrubbing areas filled with mud and dirt, they are abrasive elements that can scratch the paint on the bike. Use a lot of water and scrub gently.
- The type of soap is important! Caustic soda-based cleaners and many dishwashing detergents are unsafe for paint and metal parts. Use a car shampoo or dilute a very mild dish soap.
- Do not use high pressure water, it would remove the grease and lubricant that the chain and mechanical parts need. In addition, water could penetrate into places where it shouldn't, such as the pedals and hubs.
