Out of hibernation with your mountain bike

Stefan Loibl

 · 03.03.2016

Out of hibernation with your mountain bikePhoto: Georg Grieshaber
Out of hibernation with your mountain bike
If you don't ride your bike in winter and have parked it in the cellar or at home, you don't need to worry about wear and tear for the time being. But it's still worth checking.


Mothballing checklist

-Air pressure Fill tyres, suspension fork and shock absorber with air. Check tyres for cracks/damage.
-Brakes Check the pressure point, bleed if necessary. Clean and lubricate brake pistons (with the relevant brake fluid: mineral oil or DOT) and mobilise if the pistons are sticking.
-Impeller If the freewheel also rotates, the seal needs lubrication.
- Suspension fork/damper If the bike stands still for a long time, the lubricating oil in the fork sinks to the bottom and the foam rings under the wipers dry out. Simply turn it upside down for a few minutes.
-Telescopic supportTeflon spray helps against dry seals.
-Shoe cleats If not used for long periods and in damp conditions, cleats quickly rust and can make it difficult to unclip them.
-Chain A few drops of oil against rust and for easy revolutions.


Out of hibernation with the bike

Hibernating your bike in the dry does not cause any wear and tear. Nevertheless, in addition to the obligatory inflation of the suspension fork, shock and tyres, there are other points to consider. The lack of movement can cause the seals on all moving parts to dry out and seize up. For example, the brake pistons no longer extend evenly and must first be lubricated and mobilised.

1. pressure loss Wherever there is air, some will escape. Pressurise the suspension elements (20-25 % SAG). Also inflate the tyres and top up any dried latex milk.
Photo: Daniel Simon


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