7 Tips for Storing Your Bicycle Safely at Simply Secure Storage in Hastings MN

Published on 8/22/2021
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Tips for Storing Your Bicycle

Biking or cycling is a great hobby to take up during the warmer seasons because it’s not only fun and healthy, but it can also help you get outside more to enjoy the outdoors. As well, for many people in and around the city, biking is a great way to get from one location to the next. While you may have your bike out and about this summer, it would definitely be wise to start thinking about storage options for the fall and winter months when it is not in use. 

Bikes can be delicate and temperamental when not stored appropriately.  Get a head start on caring for your bike and read below to discover some of the best tips for storing it, which will help maintain its longevity and keep you riding on for years to come.

Clean, Clean, and Clean

Before storing any bike away for an extended time, it’s necessary to give it a thorough cleaning to prevent dirt, grime, and salt from accumulating while in storage. If you skip this step and your bike goes into storage dirty, then it’s likely that leftover dirt will cause your bike frame to rust prematurely. Avoid this by cleaning your bike before putting it away and ensuring that you wipe down the frame, chains, gears, and any baskets or accessories on your bike as well. You’ll be thankful you did this when your bike comes out of storage clean and looking ready for use again.

Keep It Inflated

Another step you don’t want to miss is inflating the tires properly before storage. You wouldn’t want any dead spots or flat tires to come out of storage. Keep your tires inflated so they stay in good shape for the long haul.

Shed or Garage

When storing your bike away for an extended period of time, it’s a good idea to consider and evaluate the location of where you plan to store it. Is it somewhere dry and safe from the outside elements? Ideally, it should be. You should always store your bike indoors and keep it covered up for extra protection if you can. Keeping your bike out in the open such as on your driveway or porch is not a good option for long-term storage.

Invest in Lubricant

Another tip to help prevent rust and to keep your bike looking great is to rub some lubricant on the cables. Do this just before storing it and your bike will be in tip-top shape once you’re ready to use it again.

Bicycle Hooks for Untouched Tires

In order to keep your bike tires properly inflated, it’s a good idea to hang your bike using a bicycle hook, which will keep the tires lifted and off the ground. This also ensures that your bike is not touching any other items in your garage, shed, or storage location that could potentially damage it.

Rent an Offsite Storage Unit

If you need more space (and who doesn’t?), then you should consider renting an offsite storage location where you can store your bike. This is especially useful if you have multiple bikes, cycling items, or other exercise equipment that you need a designated place for. Sometimes, home storage just doesn’t cut it. This is where climate controlled indoor self-storage can really meet your needs and expectations when it comes to keeping your most prized possessions safe.  Storage units come in sizes ranging from 5x10 (perfect for a bicycle!) to 0x40…and even better, your bike and equipment will be accessible to you (and only you) when you need it.

Tighten and Tune for a Sweet Ride

So, we’ve discussed what happens before storing your bike away, but what about once your bike comes out of storage? What should you do before you start riding your beloved bike once again? While it can be tempting to jump right on and take it for a spin right out of storage, it’s a good idea to make sure that it is ready to safely ride again by inspecting the bolts, screws, and tires. Go to a professional if you’re not sure how to properly tune your gears, lubricate it, and get everything in good working order once again. Remember, safety first and foremost is the key to having great biking experiences.

For many people, a bike is more than just a way of getting from one place to another. It can be a lifestyle, a passion, and a prized possession for those that truly enjoy taking part in the sport. Don’t let improper storage methods damage or ruin your bike. After all, repairs can be costly, and you want to enjoy your bike in a practical, affordable way. For more information on keeping your bike safe and secure in storage, please call Simply Secure Storage of Hastings Minnesota at (651) 240-4241