How to Clean a Bicycle: Tips and Recommendations

Almost nobody pays attention to the condition of their bicycle. You usually use it to get to a place, do physical exercises or just to have fun, but you never actually consider giving it a wash every now and then, especially if you have had it for many years now. Generally speaking, how often you need to clean your bike is determined by how often you ride it. If you use it every now and then, you may want to do the chores once a month, however, if you ride it on a daily or weekly basis, you need to consider a more frequent maintenance.

Here we will show you some tips on how to clean your bike. It is recommended that you wear some old clothes while you do the task. You also may need a hose, toothbrush and wrench.

Let's get started.

Supplies Needed

First things first, have a look at the list of the tools and materials you are going to need when cleaning your bike:

Degreaser: you have to choose a good one. Check out bike shops and auto parts shops. The market offers some good products of this type.

Chain cleaner: this supply is a bit expensive to have but you need it if you want to keep your bike well-maintained. Chain cleaners are available on the market.

Teflon spray: this tool is necessary too. You can buy one from a bike shop.

Wrench, plastic container, several toothbrushes and some old rags

The Very Process of Cleaning

Step 1: Clean the chain

Today the market provides very good chain cleaners so you don't need to take the chain off your bicycle and put it in a solution of degreaser. You can wash it while it is on the bike.

Take the chain cleaner and fill it with degreaser. There should be provided directions on the product. Attach the cleaner to the bike's chain and lock into place.

Hold the cleaner using your left hand. There is a button on the cleaner and when pressed it releases the degreaser. This way you can clean the chain. Make sure you keep the tool level. This will ensure an efficient wash.

After you are done processing the chain with the tool, remove the cleaner, take an old rag and go over the chain. Turn the pedals counterclockwise. This way you will be able to remove all the dirt that is left.

Repeat the steps again.

Step 2: Rear and front derailleur

Take a toothbrush and soak it into the degreaser for a couple of seconds. Start scrubbing. Pay special attention to the pulleys. You need to dry the area carefully. Use a cotton rag.

When you are done with that, make sure you spray some Teflon spray over the springs. This will lubricate the system.

Step 3: Crankset of crank system

Take a 5mm Hex wrench. Be sure to take out the bolts of the chain ring. There are front and back sides that need to be unscrewed.

The chainring bolts need to be placed in a container of degreaser.

Remove the chainring. Take the chain and you will be able to get to the bracket tube. Soak the toothbrush into the degreaser and apply to the tube. Scrub well. Remember to clean the pedals as well.

Then put everything back together.

Step 4: Handset and handlebar

With a large Hex wrench, loosen the stem bolt. Lift the seat up, then take it out. Use a rag to wipe the stem post. Put some grease on the post. After that make sure you wipe that well.

Put everything back into place.

Finally, use a rag to wipe down the rest of the bike. Be sure to remove all the dirt, smudges and dust. If you make this a habit, you will find out how easier it gets with time to clean your bicycle. And remember: how specific you are about washing depends on the amount of miles you cover riding your bike.