The first nice weather of the year hits, and you drop everything to rearrange your schedule to get some much-needed miles in the sun. There’s a problem, though – your lights and computer (and maybe derailleurs) are dead, your tires are flat with dried-up sealant, your clothes are missing, and your bike has been neglected all winter.
Take this as your friendly reminder to prep all your gear before those surprise early-spring days. I know I could have used one. You think at this point I’d be better at this, but every year it seems to be the same old story. Over the winter, I primarily ride fat bikes off-road, so I have no use for the lights, radar, and computers I normally use for gravel and road riding.
The same goes for electronic drivetrains. Even if your derailleurs aren’t completely dead, it’s a good idea to charge the batteries before you head out for the first time of the year (and don’t forget to use the apps to check on the coin cell batteries in the shifters!).
Now, many of you may be smirking to yourself, thinking, that’s one of the reasons I’m keeping my mechanical drivetrains. And you’re right. The prevalence of batteries throughout almost every corner of cycling gear has gotten a bit ridiculous. Years ago, I finally invested in a multi-port USB charging station, and it was one of the best things I’ve done for trying to keep all the various electronic gadgets functioning. It not only allows me to charge many things at once, but acts as an area to keep all the lights, computers, radars, cameras, sunglasses, mini inflators, electronic bells/speakers, watches, heart rate monitors, and derailleur/seatpost/shock batteries in one place.
Prep Those Tires
While you’re at it, if you’re running tubeless, it’s time to refresh that tire sealant. Your tires will likely hold air perfectly well as the sealant has dried inside and plugged up any small leaks. But get another puncture while you’re out riding, and the dried sealant will no longer flow to the new hole. It’s a good chance to also inspect the tires – do you have any foreign objects embedded in the tread? Any cuts, bulges, or fraying sidewalls? If so, do yourself a favor and swap in a new tire now.
What Else?
Lubing (or waxing) your chain is an obvious one. If your chain is dry, slightly rusty, or just excessively dirty, take the time to clean and lubricate it. If you have suspension, give the stanchions and seals a quick wipe with a clean rag to remove any excess dirt. You’ll also want to check the air pressure in your suspension if it’s been a while.
Those with mechanical drivetrains don’t need to check their batteries, but it is a good idea to check your cables. Look for housing with compressed ends under the housing end caps, so that the inner wire strands are exposed (you can cut this flush, and open the end with a pick). Also, check that the cable is running smoothly through the housing as you shift through all the gears.
Don’t Forget the Clothing!
No, you don’t have to charge your clothes (unless you have some of those heated gloves, boots, helmets with lights, etc.), but it should be washed and readily available. The first ride of the year always seems to be a scramble to locate the ideal pair of gloves, bibs, headwear, etc. Knowing where it is ahead of time means less time trying to gather your kit, and more time enjoying the sun.
Nutrition?
Depending on how long you plan to ride and what kind of nutrition you use, you may need to think about that ahead of time, too. Usually, at this time of the year, my stash of bars, waffles, chews, powders, and gels is either greatly diminished or expired because I forgot about them at the bottom of some bag. If you plan to need them, make sure to go out and buy them ahead of time so you’re ready for that ride whenever it may be.
Don’t forget to have some bottles clean and ready to go as well.
Ready? Time to Ride
Take it from me – a little time spent preparing now will mean that your first ride of the year will be remembered for how great it was to be back outside, rather than how long it took you to get ready. If you’ve already been riding this year, or never take any time off, then you should be good to go. But it’s still a good time to check your bike to make sure it’s in top condition for the heart of the cycling season.
See you out there!
