CLEANING

Bikes can get dirty pretty quickly, especially at this time of the year. The dirt they pick up not only creates friction – which slows you down and makes riding harder work that it already is – but it also accelerates wear. Therefore cleaning your bike regularly is crucial if you want to keep it running smoothly and cut back on new part purchases. Using a jet wash is the tempting option (it’s quick, easy and strangely satisfying to blast the grime off), but the high-pressure water can do damage to your bike’s bearings so you’re better off using rags, brushes and the appropriate cleaning fluids. Don’t forget to dry your bike off and relube it after washing though, or else you’ll end up rolling out on a rusty chain that makes your squeaky clean bike squeaky to ride!

RECOMMENDED MUC-OFF 8-IN-1 BIKE CLEANING KIT £35.99 X-3 DIRTY CHAIN MACHINE £34.99

With brushes, cleaning fluids, a sponge and a bucket, the 8-in-1 kit has everything you need to bring your bike out in a shine. Combine it with the X-3 chain cleaning device and you’ll be able to get your drivetrain not only sparkling but running smoothly too.

BUDGET OPTION FENWICK’S ESSENTIAL BIKE CLEANING & LUBRICATION KIT £16.99

Top UK cleaning brand Fenwick’s produce some great cleaners and lubes and this set includes a biodegradeable, solvent-free cleaner in ready-touse and concentrated forms, plus 100ml of all-weather chain lube. All you have to supply is the brushes, sponges and elbow grease.