When the days get shorter, the leaves fall, and temperatures drop, your bike needs special care. Rain, dirt, and road salt affect the frame, chain, and brakes. If you take proper care of your bike now, you can start the new cycling season in spring safely and worry-free. Here you can find out how to get your bike or e-bike through fall and winter in the best possible condition – with simple tips for cleaning, maintenance, and storage.

Cleaning your bike properly – the basis of all maintenance

Regular bike cleaning in fall and winter protects your bike from dirt, rust, and wear. It’s worth giving your bike a quick clean after every ride, especially if you’ve been riding in the rain or on salty roads.

Here’s how to do it properly:

• Use lukewarm water, a mild detergent, and a soft brush.
• Do not use a high-pressure cleaner – it forces water into bearings and seals.
• Dry your bike thoroughly, preferably with a soft cloth.

💡 Tip: A special bike cleaner removes grease and salt residues particularly effectively without damaging plastic parts.

💡 Sustainable: Use biodegradable cleaning products to protect the environment and groundwater.

Maintain the drive system – for smooth running and a long service life

The drive system is the heart of every bike. In winter in particular, the chain is subjected to heavy wear and tear due to wet and dirty conditions.

Important care steps:

• Regularly degrease the chain, sprockets, and rear derailleur – ideally with chain cleaner or a cloth and some alcohol.
• Then treat with a high-quality lubricant. In winter, a viscous chain oil is suitable, as it repels moisture better.
• Wipe off excess oil to prevent dust and dirt deposits.

💡 E-bike tip: A well-maintained drive increases the range and reduces wear on the motor components.

Tires and air pressure – stay safe in wet conditions

In fall, wet leaves and cold temperatures make for slippery roads. Tires play an important role in keeping you safe on the road.

How to improve your riding safety:

• Check the tire tread regularly and replace worn tires in good time.
• Slightly reduce the air pressure to improve grip on slippery surfaces.
• If you ride a lot, you can switch to winter tires or all-weather tires for your bike.

Check and maintain your brakes

Wetness, mud, and road salt impair braking performance. Good brakes are crucial for your safety.

Here’s what you should keep in mind:

• Clean your rims or brake discs regularly with a special brake cleaner.
• Check the condition of your brake pads – uneven wear or heavy dirt are warning signs.
• Hydraulic brakes should be serviced regularly at a specialist workshop, especially after winter.

Protection against rust and corrosion

Moisture is your bike’s biggest enemy in winter.

• Spray metal parts and screws regularly with anti-corrosion spray or bicycle wax.
• This creates a protective layer that repels water and salt.
• Make sure that no wax gets on the brake surfaces or tires.

Lighting and power supply

The dark season calls for good visibility. Functioning bicycle lights are not only mandatory, but also a life insurance policy.

Important points:

• Check the front and rear lights regularly.
• Store battery-powered lights in a dry and frost-free place.
• If not in use for long periods, recharge them briefly every few weeks to prevent deep discharge.
• A spare battery in your luggage is worth its weight in gold on longer tours.

💡 E-bike tip: Always store the battery at room temperature and overwinter it at around 60% charge.

Storing your bike correctly for the winter

If your bike is not used in winter, it should be stored safely.

How to get your bike through the break:

• Store it in a dry, cool, frost-free place – ideally in a basement or garage.
• Inflate the tires slightly to avoid pressure marks.
• Remove the e-bike battery and store it indoors at room temperature.
• A breathable bike cover protects against dust and moisture.

Conclusion: Good care pays off

With a little attention and the right bike care in fall and winter, you can extend the life of your bike, save on repair costs, and start the new season with a smile. A clean, well-protected bike not only rides easier—it also stays beautiful longer.

💡 Extra tip: Have your bike checked by a specialist repair shop in the spring to ensure that the gears, brakes, and bearings are perfectly adjusted. Then nothing will stand in the way of your next bike trip!