New cleaning kit for winter cycling

Those who commute to work by bicycle are faced with particular challenges during the autumn and winter months.

The end of British Summer Time heralds the need for a good set of lights and our increasingly wet autumn and winter seasons make a good case for mudguards, but less obvious perhaps is the need to keep a bicycle clean.

Rain, grit and road salt can play havoc with both the appearance and the efficiency of a bicycle used for commuting. Regular wet weather cycling washes away chain lubricant and build-up of grit that has stuck to oil or grease on the bike can cause premature wear.

Protect your bike from winter weather

The best way of keeping a bicycle in good condition over the winter months is to wash it regularly and keep components well lubricated. There are a number of bicycle care kits available including the Pro Care Bucket Kit at £19.95. The kit contains bike wash, chain cleaner, chain lubricants, specialised grease and cleaning brushes along with a maintenance instruction manual.

A spokesperson for the Environmental Transport Association (ETA) said: “Bicycles are particularly exposed to the elements so it is vital to keep them clean – a cheaper alternative to a specialist kit is to buy a cheap car shampoo, a brush and a can of WD40, all of which comes to around £5.”

Save money on bicycle insurance

Even more of a risk to your bicycle than the ravages of winter is the threat of theft.

You should aim to spend around 10 per cent of your bike’s value on a stout lock and then invest in a good cycle insurance policy. Just as with any other insurance, the market is competitive so it is worth shopping around. Be weary of policies that charge extra for third party insurance, bicycle breakdown services and even race event cover as these benefits can be found included for free.