How to Clean Your Electric Bicycle
During the current pandemic, it is crucial to maintain clean and healthy environments. You wash your hands and sanitize your home, but how often do you think about cleaning electric bikes? COVID-19 is a mysterious illness, but the one thing that remains consistent is that regular washing can prevent infection. Therefore, to limit the risk of bicycle contamination, consider washing your bicycle. The process is straightforward, but it does require some equipment and caution.
Equipment and Tool Needs
Before you dive into cleaning your bike, make sure you have all the necessary tools. When washing a women electric bike or a men's bicycle, you will need at least eight items.
1. Dish soap
2. Sponges
3. Shop rags
4. Garden hose
5. Two buckets
6. Scrub brushes
7. Bottle brushes
8. Soft, square head brush
Beyond the above tools, you may find the addition of a bike stand, chain keeper and degreaser useful. The stand is especially helpful, but it is also expensive, so you can make do without.
The 3 Don'ts
Whether you ride some of the best electric tricycles for adults or depend on an affordable hybrid, there are certain practices that you should not use or rely on when washing your bike. First, do not use abrasive sponges or brushes on your frame because they will scratch the finish, which can result in rust. Second, do not mix rags, buckets or tools. Using the same rag you used on your drivetrain will only cover the frame in grease. Finally, as tempting as it is to use a pressure washer to speed up the cleaning process, do not. High-pressure systems can force water and debris into your bikes bearing and sensitive components, which will lead to degradation.
The Process
Now that you have all the tools ready, it is time to dive into the washing of your bicycle. The process involves three distinct steps, and depending on your experience, you may finish washing your bike in about 15 to 30 minutes.
1. Setup: Before you can start washing your bike, you first need to fill your two buckets with soap and water. Make sure to add a generous amount of soap. You will then need to mount your bike to the optional stand or find a way to prop the bike up for the wash. Then, remove the wheels and use the chain keeper to maintain tension. Finally, lay out your tools near you for easy access.
2. Wash: To wash the bike, you want to focus on four sections: the chain, drivetrain, frame and wheels. It is best to use a degreaser on the chain, spraying it and letting it sit for ten minutes before rinsing. Then, use the first bucket of water and a stiff-bristled brush to clean the drivetrain. Finally, use a soft sponge to thoroughly coat the frame and wheels with the soap mixture from the second bucket. Get every nook before rinsing.
3. Finish: To finish the wash, dry everything, and reattach all components. Also, lube the chains and give it a few cranks to ensure it is working.
Cleaning your bike, like cleaning everything else in the current pandemic, is crucial. If you would like more information about washing or sanitizing your bike, contact a local shop.