Our Programs Coordinator, Menelik, hosted his first live Q&A session on Instagram last Thursday. He answered a few questions about winter riding - check it out!
And be sure to join us for future Q&A sessions if you have questions about cycling, buying the right bike for you, bike maintenance, and more! Q&A sessions will be hosted every Wednesday from 12-1pm over Instagram.
What’s the best way to carry a bike up and down the stairs?
One way is with one hand on the top tube and the other on the handlebars, and then lifting the bikes top tup above the shoulder. Another way to simply grab the top tube and handlebars in one hand and lift off the ground - this works better with lighter bikes.
What’s the best way to clean winter grit/salt out of my drivetrain?
First, let’s consider a common mistake of having too much lubricant on the chain, which attracts dirt and excess debris. That aside, here’s a suggested step-by-step process:
Preferably remove the rear wheel and install a “dummy hub” (Park Tool has one).
Use a stiff brush and apply degreaser to scrub jockey wheels (where applicable), sprocket, and chain below the chain stays to prevent gunk from entering the bottom bracket area.
Using a different, clean brush, apply soapy (e.g. dish liquid) water scrub and repeat step 2.
With steamy, hot water inside a spare water bottle (don’t use this for drinking!), rinse away the soapy water as a light rain would.
While turning the cranks, use a cotton shop towel to dry. Or you can also air dry.
Link by link, apply lubricant. After you’ve lubed the entire chain, go back and wipe off the excess with the cotton shop towel.
The rear cassette and cog can be handled separately by degreasing and scrubbing.
Do you have a recommendation for eye protection that won’t fog?
When wearing a mask or face covering, it helps to bring the material above the nose and under the glasses. There is also defogger spray that can be applied to lenses.
Who has good winter biking apparel?
Try out outdoor supply stores. Locally, you can go to H&H Outdoors (in Lauraville) or REI (there are a few locations in the DMV area).
What kind of gloves should I get to ride in the winter?
There are many different types, so depending on what you’re comfortable with, the answer will change. Camping and outdoors stores have great gloves for biking. Another tip you might try out is to put a couple dashes of cayenne inside gloves and socks for extra warmth!