I'm taking a break from leading the USA Cycling Development Camp as I have done in the past six years and I'm missing the interactions with campers and all of the great questions that they have and all the materials that the coaches would prepare.
Give some reasons why we clean our bikes? 1) when we are sponsored by a bicycle company (including receiving a discounted price) your role is to be an ambassador for that company. Let the decals be seen! 2) a clean bike is a sign of respect... you rely on your bike for your training and racing and need it to function properly. 3) a clean bike is a faster bike! and, 4) when you clean your bike you may find things that need replacing (tires, frayed cables, worn brake pads/ chains/ bar tape and more)
Cleaning Tip - with soap and warm water and the proper brushes you're ready to begin. Varied brushes are best because you want to get the most out of your effort. Start with a spray down, not a high pressure blast, then go to work on the cleanest areas with a sponge or soft brush (frame, bars and stem, saddle and seat post, pedals), then move to a stiffer brush for wheels and finally your separate chain brush, which can be used for your crank set and derailleurs. If you do not clean regularly or you enjoyed some off road adventures you may have to resort to some degreasing products to get the deep grime out. Rinse, dry and add lubricants before test riding.
Simple way to remember all of this that was taught to me a long time ago by a dear friend: "wash your bike like you take as shower. You wouldn't start cleaning your crotch before you cleaned your face, would you"
Larry Nolan, Team Specialized
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