How to Prep a Mountain Bike for Winter

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By eHow Contributing Writer

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(5 Ratings)

The onset of winter doesn't have to mean the end of mountain bike season. All it takes for year-round access to the trails is a little preparation.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Step 1

Repack your bike's hubs, headset and bottom bracket. If you don't know how to do this yourself, bring your bike into a bike shop and have them do it for you.
Step 2

Mount fenders over both wheels. They'll minimize splashing of slush and snow.
Step 3

Put front and rear lights on your bike. When the sun goes down in the early afternoon you'll be glad you have them.
Step 4

Replace worn tires with new heavy-tread knobbies.
Step 5

Use a lower tire pressure for better traction on slippery surfaces.
Step 6

Use platform pedals instead of clipless pedals. The clipless pedals can be very difficult to clip into when they're cold and icy.
Step 7

Perform regular maintenance on the bike all winter long. Wash all slush and dirt from the bike and lubricate all moving parts at least once a week.

Tips & Warnings

Use studded tires or chains for extreme winter conditions.
If you have a shock with an elastomer dampening device, replace that device with a metal spring that won't be affected by the cold.

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