Vancouver, with its stunning coastal views, mountains, and abundant cafe stops, is a cyclist's summer dream. But in this city of perpetual mist and moisture, keeping your bike safely stored can be quite the nightmare. Here’s a guide by our storage pros (who love their bikes too) on how to properly store your road or mountain bike to keep it in top condition, and common mistakes to avoid.
Road Bike Storage Vancouver
If you know the dont's then you know the do’s of road bike storage in Vancouver's temperate climate. Let's go over what not to do!
1. Avoid leaving your bike outside for extended periods.
Vancouver’s rain and humidity can quickly lead to rust, corrosion, and deterioration of both metal and non-metal components. The obvious choice is to store inside your home where temperatures remain constant and warm. If you opt for your garage or basement, then just be sure there is no moisture and check on it when temperatures drop low to ensure it's safe.
What if you don't have space at home? Just select our Simple Plan to get started. Storing a bike shouldn't cost you the price of a storage unit.
2. Don't store your bike in a room or storage unit without climate control.
You'll end up with damage similar to leaving it outside. Keeping it away from rain is a good thing, but climate control goes a long way if you're someone with a high end bike or e-bike with a battery. Extreme temperatures and humidity can affect the bike’s groupset, and other electrical components like batteries. It can also compromise your frame's integrity.
3. If you must store it outside, never store your bike outside without a cover.
It's tempting to store your bike on the balcony if you're living in a condo, but even a brief period exposed to the elements can cause significant damage. Choose a waterproof cover and check on it regularly.
4. Even in seemingly safe neighbourhoods, never leave your bike unsecured.
This is less about the elements and more about other people who see your bike as a financial opportunity. Use a high-quality lock and consider securing it to an immovable object. This also secures it against unwanted falls when unattended.
5. Don’t neglect regular maintenance.
Clean and lubricate your bike regularly, especially if it’s stored in a humid environment. This helps prevent rust on the chain and other metal components.
6. No ground contact.
Avoid storing your bike directly on the ground, especially on surfaces that can retain moisture, such as grass or concrete. This can lead to tire damage and increase the risk of rust. Use wall or ceiling mounts to keep your bike off the ground. This not only saves space but also protects your tires from damage and deformation over time.
Proper storage of your bike in Vancouver’s climate is crucial to maintaining its longevity and performance. By following these tips and avoiding common mistakes, you can ensure your bike stays in excellent condition, ready for your next adventure. Whether you’re navigating city streets or exploring scenic routes, a well-maintained bike will always be your best companion.
If you don't have space at home to store your fancy bike, just select our Simple Plan to get started. Starting at $20/mo, we know storing a bike shouldn't cost you the price of a storage unit.
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