Cleaning my bike

[tallliman]

As per the above, what should I be doing to the bike after each ride and less frequently to keep things in tip top condition?

 

[Citius]

Don't over-think it. Wash the bits that are dirty - lube the bits that move.

 

[raleighnut]

The Add-Wax car shampoos are pretty good, just avoid getting it on braking surfaces.

 

[bpsmith]

An application of a decent wax on the frame, seat post, bars, etc will help no end with keeping the bike dirt free to start with.

 

[night cycler]

Talliman-I usually put mine away, but somewhere where it can dry off. (I have an outhouse joined on the house that is warmish to work in). Then, I get a yellow duster or similar and wipe everywhere on the bike that needs wiping clean-nice and steady when I’m in the mood to do it. I even do the individual spokes. Then I usually lubricate the chain/gear cassette with some car gearbox oil, EP stuff is fine. Be careful to prevent oil from dripping on to the rims or tyres-mine is stood on a decent sized piece of cardboard (that I change every so often), and I put old cloths down under the chain where oil may drip.I also lube any exposed cables.

I think if it is done on a regular basis and you get in to the habit/routine, it is easy to keep on top of.

I got some of these bottle brushes last week for cleaning in the gaps of the centre pull brakes, and anywhere else that I cannot access with the duster. Only £1.23 inc postage from China.So good for the job that I`ve ordered some more.
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/191451015631?_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649&ssPageName=STRK:MEBIDX:IT

 

[tallliman]

Thanks all...I'll just try and keep her tidy. Another question, wet lube vs dry lube, what's the difference in when they should be used?

 

[Crandoggler]

Wet for wet, dry for dry.

Wet is sticky and withstands the rain, dry is the total opposite.

Stick to wet this time of year if you're out in the rain mate.

 

[Andrew_P]

Muc Off polish is brilliant as it doesn't mark non painted surfaces or plastic

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Muc-Off-Miracle-Shine-Polish-500/dp/B000PEDSIM

 

[bpsmith]

Muc Off polish is brilliant as it doesn't mark non painted surfaces or plastic

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Muc-Off-Miracle-Shine-Polish-500/dp/B000PEDSIM

Depends if they actually have any marks that need polishing out I guess?

If not, then just a Wax will do a better job.