{"id":3342,"date":"2023-03-20T18:45:00","date_gmt":"2023-03-20T22:45:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/brooklynfixedgear.com\/?p=3342"},"modified":"2024-02-05T22:40:44","modified_gmt":"2024-02-06T03:40:44","slug":"how-to-store-your-bike-long-term","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/brooklynfixedgear.com\/maintenance-and-repairs\/how-to-store-your-bike-long-term\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Store Your Bicycle Long-Term (And Save Space)"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

If you’re like me, you’ve probably spent more time than you’d like to admit searching for the perfect storage solution for your bike. Maybe you’ve tried storing it in your cramped apartment or keeping it outside, only to find it rusted and unrideable the next time you want to hit the road. Today, I’m going to share with you tips on how to store your bicycle for a long period of time<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In this post, we’ll cover all the bases, from choosing the right storage location to preparing your bike for storage. We’ll also discuss space-saving tips when storing your bike. By the end of this post, you’ll have all the tools you need to ensure that your bike stays safe and in good condition, no matter where you choose to store it. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

How do you properly store a bicycle for a long period of time?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

There may come a time when you need to take a break from cycling or plan to use a different bike for a while. It’s crucial for cyclists to properly store their bicycle to ensure it remains in good condition even when stored for an extended period of time. Here are some ways to prepare your bicycle for storage<\/strong>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Choose a suitable location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Find a dry, cool, and protected space to store your bike, as exposure to weather elements<\/a> can damage the components and impact the bike’s longevity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Clean the bike<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Thoroughly wash your bike to remove any dirt or corrosive material from the frame, as these can cause damage during storage. Make sure to dry it well to prevent moisture from encouraging rust. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Wipe down the frame to remove any grime, grease, moisture, and dust that may have accumulated on it. This will help prevent corrosion and keep the bike in good condition during storage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Before storing the bike, either give it a tune-up or have it serviced by a professional to ensure it is in optimal condition when you’re ready to use it again.<\/p><\/blockquote><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

3. Perform a tune-up<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Before storing the bike, either give it a tune-up or have it serviced by a professional to ensure it is in optimal condition when you’re ready to use it again. Inspect the frame for any cracks, dents, or other signs of damage that may need to be addressed before storage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Release tension on springs and cables<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Avoid storing your bike with springs in a tensioned or “loaded” position, as this can speed up deterioration. For example, don’t store a road bike with the chain shifted to the largest chainring in the front and the largest cog in the cassette, as this causes the most tension on springs and cables.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How to keep the chains, brakes, and cables in tip-top shape<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

By performing regular maintenance<\/strong> on your chains, brakes, and cables, you can ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your bicycle. Here are tips to keep the chains, brakes, and cables of your bicycle in tip-top shape during storage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Clean the chain<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Flip your bike over and, using a rag, grasp the chain behind the chain ring. Turn the pedal backward, allowing the rag to gather the built-up gunk from the chain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Lubricate the chain<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Apply lube to the chain while continuing to turn the crank. Do this for one full rotation of the chain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Image of a man using a chain checker on a bicycle wheel. Source: unsplash<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

3. Check and maintain brakes<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Inspect your brakes for wear<\/a> and ensure they are functioning properly. Replace worn brake pads and adjust the brake cables as necessary. Keep in mind that you may need to re-bleed your brake system or retune your gears after performing maintenance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Secure and maintain cables<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Use zip ties or other cable management solutions to keep your cables tidy and prevent them from getting damaged. Check the cables for fraying or other signs of wear, and replace them if necessary. Clean and lubricate cables periodically to ensure smooth operation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What is the optimal temperature to store a bike?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The optimal temperature for bike storage varies depending on the type of bike. For electric bikes, the ideal storage temperature is between 32\u00baF and 68\u00baF to protect the sensitive electrical components and maintain the battery’s health. For e-bike batteries specifically, the recommended storage temperature range is between 41\u00b0F and 68\u00b0F.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In general, store your bike in a cool and dry space that is above 50\u00b0F and doesn’t exceed 98.6\u00b0F<\/strong>. Avoid extreme temperatures or direct sunlight, which can cause the tires to lose strength and potentially damage other components. If the bike was exposed to freezing temperatures during shipping or storage, allow it to acclimate to room temperature for three hours before using it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How can you save space when storing your bike?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

To save space when storing your bike long-term<\/strong>, consider the following storage solutions:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Image
Image of a bicycle mounted on the wall. Source: unsplash<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

1. Overhead shelf with bins<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Maximize your garage storage space by installing an overhead shelf with bins to store your bike and accessories.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Entryway bike storage<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If you don’t have a garage or shed, store your bike inside your front door by creating an organized entryway that can accommodate one or more bicycles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Wall-mounted or ceiling-mounted hooks<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Install screw-in storage hooks on the wall or ceiling to hang your bike vertically or horizontally, making efficient use of vertical space.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Bike storage pods or racks<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Use dedicated bike storage solutions, such as bike storage pods or racks, to securely and compactly store your bike in small living spaces.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you want even more tips and insights, watch this video called “How Can I Prepare My Bike For A Long Period Of Storage?”<\/em> from the GCN Tech YouTube channel.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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