As you sip on your much-deserved post-ride refreshment, you can’t help but admire the beauty of your two-wheeled steed. But wait, is that mud on the frame? And, are those greasy fingerprints on the brake levers? It’s time to give your road bike the spa treatment it deserves! In this blog post, we will walk you through the art of washing your road bike using the hose.
Water & Hose are Not Enemies of Your Road Bike
When it comes to washing a road bike, it’s important to remember that water and pressure are not the enemy.
In fact, using a hose and a bucket of soapy water is an excellent way to get your bike sparkling clean. Contrary to popular belief, a hose on a gentle shower setting can be used to rinse off the bike without causing any damage to the bearings or other sensitive parts. [1]
What Not to do When Washing a Road bicycle Using a Hose?
When washing a road bicycle using a hose, there are several things that should be avoided.
Firstly, it is not advisable to use high-pressure water as this can get into the sealed bearings and cause damage. Excessive pressure can force dirt and debris into sensitive areas and wash away grease, which is meant to prevent water and dirt from penetrating your bike’s bearings.
It is important to avoid blasting a hub with water for an extended period of time, but by and large, the hose is a more efficient and time-saving method than using a bucket and sponge.
Another mistake to avoid is failing to remove the wheels for a thorough wheels-off wash. Taking the wheels off to get full access to the chain and chainrings is important.
Neglecting a chain keeper is another mistake as that can be used to keep tension on the chain while it is being cleaned. This makes it much easier to clean properly.
Using Nylon brushes is a mistake. Natural fiber brushes such as horsehair or Tampico plant fiber are recommended instead. Nylon brushes hold liquid like degreaser better and do not drag grease like synthetic fibers.
How To Use the Hose to Wash the Road Bike?
Step 1- Gather some necessary tools, such as a bucket, bike-specific cleaner or dish soap, rubbing alcohol (if there are disc brakes), brushes, and bike-specific degreaser.
Step 2- Find a shaded area to wash the bike and set it up on a repair stand (if possible). Also, it is best to remove the wheels if you can.
Step 3- Use a hose on the shower setting to rinse it thoroughly.
Step 4- Apply a degreaser on the cassettes, derailleur, chainrings and chain and let it soak in for about five minutes while cleaning other parts of the bike. If there are disc brakes, avoid spraying degreaser on the brake calipers, pads, or rotors otherwise the brakes will become squeaky.
Use separate brushes for the drivetrain and frame. You may keep them dipped in the soapy solution.
Step 5- Scrub the parts that are easily reachable and pedal the chain backwards while holding the sponge on it. This will clean the chain thoroughly.
Step 6- Rinse the bike thoroughly after scrubbing. Then tilt it to get rid of the excess water.
Step 7- To dry the bike, bounce it on the tires or dry it with clean rags, paying particular attention to the areas where water tends to accumulate.
Add fresh lube to keep the chain moving smoothly. When applying lube, back pedal a few pedal rotations so as to not miss any part of the chain.
Use soft-bristled brushes for the bike frame and firmer brushes for the drivetrain. If the bike isn’t likely to dry in about 5-10 minutes, dry it with clean rags or let it sit out in the sun.
Ber Careful (A few Tips)
Here are a few things to keep in mind while using the hose on your bike:
1- Keep the hose spray at a distance of approximately 1.5 meters away from the bike, focusing on getting rid of dirt and grime without harming delicate parts.
2- Be particularly cautious around bearing areas, such as bottom brackets and hubs. Try to avoid directly spraying these bearing areas.
3- Hold the hose at an oblique angle to minimize water force in these spots.
4- Keep the water pressure low, concentrating on the bike’s frame and components, and [2]
Use a repair stand to make cleaning easier
Using a repair stand can make the process of cleaning a road bike significantly easier.
By elevating the bike, it allows for better access to all of its parts, making the overall process more efficient and manageable.
Additionally, a repair stand helps to prevent any unnecessary strain on the cyclist’s back, promoting a comfortable and enjoyable cleaning experience.
Regular bike washing extends component life
Regularly washing your bike not only keeps it looking great, but it also helps extend the life of its components.
The drivetrain, in particular, requires proper cleaning as it suffers the most from neglect and abuse.
A grimy chain can cause sloppy shifting and wear down expensive cassette cogs, while gunked-up chainrings and dirty brake rotors can decrease overall bike performance.
A well-maintained bike results in a smoother ride, saving you money on expensive replacements in the long run.
Set aside some time at least once a month for proper washing to keep your bike in tip-top condition.
The Importance of Removing Wheels
When it comes to ensuring a thorough cleaning for your road bike, removing the wheels is a crucial step.
This allows you to access all the hidden nooks and crannies that can accumulate dirt and debris over time, leading to reduced performance and potential damage.
Begin by flipping the bike upside down or placing it in a workstand to gain easy access to the wheel axles.
Carefully unclamp the quick-release skewers or unbolt the wheel nuts, then gently slide the wheels off the frame. This will give you the opportunity to clean not only the rims and spokes but also the hub and cassette, preventing the buildup of grime that could compromise your bike’s functionality.
After cleaning the wheels, ensure you dry them off properly before reattaching to the bike frame. This will help avoid the risk of rust forming and maintain the smooth operation of your road bike. [3]
A chain keeper is essential for cleaning the drivetrain
A chain keeper is an essential tool in the process of cleaning your bike’s drivetrain, as it makes the job more efficient and hassle.
This handy device maintains tension on the chain when the rear wheel is removed, allowing for easier access to the various components of the drivetrain.
By using a chain keeper, you can prevent the chain from folding up or falling off during cleaning and avoid the frustration of trying to detangle or reattach it. [4]
Detergent-based soaps can damage aluminum parts
Detergent-based soaps have the potential to cause harm to your bike, particularly if it has aluminum frame or parts.
These soaps contain chemicals that can react with aluminum, leading to corrosion and damage over time.
To avoid harming your bicycle, it is recommended that you use an aluminum-safe soap when cleaning.
Opt for specially formulated bike cleaners that are safe for all frame materials. [5]
