Covid-19 has shaken the world and still shows no sign that it is going anywhere. But a beacon in the form of a modest bicycle shines through the darkness. With public transport a potential vector of infection, one of the greatest inventions in history has re-emerged. Brompton, a London-based folding bike company, has quintupled online since April. Halfords benefited from a 23% increase in its share price and demand for one of Haynes Publishing's best-selling textbooks. - The bike book: increased by 566% when locked. This is great news for the physical and mental health of the population. So everything is fine ... almost. You see, while your shiny new steed is a matter of delight, its appeal is somewhat tarnished by the winter elements. Fortunately, a few simple tips can help you get through the next six months.
The bike book
1 CLEAN AND CLASSIC
Whether you ride a hybrid bike, a Dutch bike, a mountain bike or an electric bike, you need to keep your pride and joy clean. This is not only for aesthetics, although everyone is excited about a shiny horse, but also to keep you and your bike rolling smoothly. In short, first wash your frame with a sponge and a bucket of water. Then spray your entire bike with a bike cleaner like Muc-Off or Fenwick. Leave on for a minute or two before scrubbing with a soft brush. (Don't use a kitchen sponge as the sharp green coating can scratch the paint.) Rinse your bike with clean water, dry it with an old rag, and finally apply chain lubricant to the chain and cassette (the sprockets of the Rear wheel).
2 PROTECTION AGAINST THE ELEMENTS
Wet roads + spinning wheels = muddy water pulling you and your outfit. The result? You are a wet mess. Fenders are the safest way to avoid that unsightly and uncomfortable look, and they're a breeze, especially when commuting. There are two main types of fenders: those for frames fitted with fender eyelets, called "fixed fenders", and those for frames without, called "clip-on fenders". They are suitable for all types of bicycles, including foldable ones.
3 LIGHTING THE STREET
Bike lights are essential (both for safety and legal reasons) to get through the dark winter months. In fact, they should be at the top of your accessories shopping list. Basically, bike lights fall into two camps: those that provide enough light to make sure you can see what to expect and those that are only visible to others. In other words, see or be seen! The former is more intended for driving on dark country roads. The latter are perfect for a busier city drive where the street lights already favor the vision. You can buy a perfectly suitable pair of Halfords for ten. The lights that you can charge via USB are winners in our books too. A fluorescent jacket rounds off the visible look.
4 YOUR CABINET
There is a saying that there is no such thing as bad weather, just inappropriate clothing. It was attributed to the famous hiker Alfred Wainwright, but is equally relevant to cyclists. There are many high quality clothing brands that create aesthetic and practical outfits. As a guide, layers are better than heavy clothing so as not to break a sweat. Ideally a base layer to wick away sweat while providing insulation. Next comes a polyester blouse before ending with a waterproof jacket or windbreaker. Wear long shorts or travel pants down, depending on your type of cycling. And a good quality pair of gloves is not a negotiable item.
5 BEAT THE DEFLATION
Bright blue skies and golden hues make autumn a great time to ride a bike. Unfortunately, it's also season for fallen leaves, broken branches, and increased roadside litter, which creates the ghost of a flat tire. That is why you need to learn how to change the inner tube of the tire. You can learn the process step by step in a book like the Haynes Bike Book Manual. It's easier than you think, but not if you don't have the essentials for a tire changer, replacement tubes and a mini pump. (A small breakdown repair kit will also help, although tubing is more convenient.) Prevention is always better than cure, and there are things you can do to avoid a puncture. Keep your tires inflated to the correct pressure, which is printed on the side of the tire, and regularly check your tires for sharp stones or embedded broken glass.
These top tips were provided by sports journalist and author James Witts. For more valuable advice on all aspects of bike maintenance, purchase The Bike Book (7th Edition) on Haynes.com for £ 18.99.
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