Well, it's that time of year again. We're almost past the last big snow (1 foot next Monday, but who really knows if that'll happen), so it's time to tune.
First of all, your chain is probably bordering on radioactively rusty.
Not only is this disgusting, but it's also slowing you down. So take a chain-cleaning tool or even a stiff-bristled old toothbrush and pretty much any kind of all-purpose cleaner and scrub off that rust. Chances are that your derailleurs and chain-rings and such also need a little TLC, so give those a once-over too. Next, take a little bit of chain lube (I personally like to use Triflow, available for about $3 at McGuckins) and grease up that chain. That should take care of the dry post-cleaned chain.
Next is your cables and housing. Replace them.
Housing-which is the tubing that protects your shifting and break cables- should be replaced around two or three times a year. This is because rust and grime actually build up inside the housing which causes the cables and the inside of the housing to rust. It is not uncommon to have brake or shifting cables snap inside the housing because of friction caused by the grime buildup. Also, replacing your cables every once in a while will give you a smoother shifting experience because the tiny cables that make up the interior of the housing get dry after a while. So when you replace the cables and housing, drizzle a little bit of lube inside and it'll give your housing a little bit longer life.
Replacing the cables and housing and cleaning and lubing your chain is the surest way to get rid of some of the most weathering effects of winter. So wait until the last snow, and take care of business.
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1 comment:
White Vinegar works the best on rust. It's environmentally safe and smells like Easter Egg hunts. I suggest it to everyone dealing with rust issues.
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