Rust on bike?

Question
Hello, I have a bicycle maintenance question. I realize you aren't in the bicycle repair category, but that category is empty and your description says you work in a shop, so if you can answer that would be great. Just so you know, I have a raleigh mojave:

http://www.google.com/imgres?q=raleigh+mojave&um=1&hl=en&client=firefox-a&hs=xty

Basically my problem is rust... not on the chain, I manage to keep my chain in okay condition (they usually last maybe 6 months before they stretch out, I don't know how good that is though), but other components I worry about. My frame is aluminum, so no worries there, but my handlebar isn't and that has started to accumulate some rusty spots where the paint has come off. I don't think it has caused any structural problems, but again I worry.

Other random components have also accumulated rust (most of which I don't know the technical name for :P), bolts and screws in particular. Also the short lever things used tighten up the wheel axles, most of the components involved with the brake pads and a larger piece of metal along the front, right above the break pads and connected to the shock absorbers (don't know if you can see in the picture).

I suppose my question is, is the rust a problem, if yes what can I do if anything at all to remove it, and also what can I do to prevent more from accumulating in the future?

Thanks!

Answer
Hello Nico,

First I wanted to tell you that you have 2 gorgeous bike of Cannnondale (my favorite bikebuilder)! About your no worries about the alloy/aluminum, you must worrie about it. Because oxidation from acid/sweat is not covered by the warranty of Cannondale, so clean you bike(s) after each ride when you have sweatened a lot.
The rust on other components like bolts and screws is always a matter of maintenance. If you clean the parts (lightly sand them/with some coca cola/de-ruster) and put them in grease (petroljelly). Most of the times these parts aren't from the best quality, and after rain they keep wet. If you clean your whole bike, you can de-rust it and dry/clean the parts well and put there some petroljelly on (not too much). And dry your bike after rain!
If you want to have a an alternative, you can choose to replace all those bolts but that's not an option I guess.

Good luck Nico!