Winter’s finally behind us and summer is just around the corner. The long, warm and - after the relentless wet weather we’ve had here in the UK - blissfully dry rides are coming.

While you only need a wardrobe refresh to get ready for summer riding, your bike may need a little more attention. If you’re lucky enough to have a dedicated winter bike, your “good” bike has probably been tucked away indoors, safe from the harsh conditions that can quietly wreak havoc on components and finishes.

But if you’ve been riding through winter like a true Belgian, your bike deserves some proper TLC.

Most basic maintenance can be done with simple tools - Allen keys, screwdrivers, even your smartphone. But once you get into more advanced jobs, you’ll need specialist kit like torque wrenches, bleed kits and bearing presses.

Let’s start with the simplest job: cleaning your bike. Even if you wash it regularly, grime builds up in those hard‑to‑reach places. A thorough clean also gives you the perfect opportunity to spot any issues before they become problems.

1. Get the bike set up

If you have one, mount your bike on a work stand. This makes it easier to remove the wheels and get into all the awkward areas. It’s also a good idea to remove your chain so you can clean it properly and check for wear. A chain checker will tell you how much life is left after a winter of riding. Drop the chain into some degreaser to soak while you work.

Remove any extras from your frame - bottle cages, lights, bags. This makes cleaning easier and gives you a chance to check for seized bolts, frayed straps or other issues.

2. Rinse first

Yes, rinse before scrubbing. This shifts loose grit and softens dried mud or bugs so you’re not grinding abrasive dirt into your paintwork.

With the frame wet, apply a pre‑wash spray like Dynamic Bio Filth Fighter or Muc‑Off’s Punk Power. Car shampoos can work too. Let the cleaner sit for a moment to loosen the grime, then get to work with a sponge or microfibre cloth and a bucket of warm, soapy water.

3. Move on to the wheels

If you’re running disc brakes, remove the rotors - you don’t want to contaminate them; unless you enjoy squealing brakes. You can leave the cassette on, but it’s easier to clean if you remove it using a chain whip and lockring tool.

Rinse the wheels, apply pre‑wash, then scrub. Check your tyres for cuts, wear or embedded debris. If you’re on rim brakes, inspect the braking surface. Some rims have wear indicators; once they disappear, it’s time for a replacement.

If you couldn’t remove the cassette, apply degreaser and scrub with a stiff brush long enough to reach between the cogs. Afterwards, run a cloth between the sprockets to remove any stubborn dirt.

4. Clean the chain

After soaking, scrub the chain with a stiff brush to remove all the gunk. Once it’s clean, rinse with water and hang up to dry. If you use wax, hot water or white spirits work best, or a proprietary cleaner from Muc‑Off or Silca. Once it’s clean and dry you can re-install and add lube, wiping off any excess.

5. Dry and protect

Use microfibre cloths to dry the frame, paying attention to hidden areas and bolt heads. A product like Muc‑Off’s It Blows can help blast water out of tight spots.

Now’s a great time to apply frame protection. RideWrap has served me well on my CEXevo, keeping it looking fresh after three years of racing, riding and travelling. Ceramic coatings from Muc‑Off  or  Gtechniq are another option. Or, for a simple shine, a quick spray of Mr Sheen works surprisingly well.

6. Reassemble and admire

Once everything is clean and dry, reassemble the bike. Add a little grease to bolts and use a torque wrench where required. Step back, admire your handiwork - then get out and ride.

Prefer to leave it to the pros?

If all this sounds a bit much - or you simply don’t have the tools, space or time - Handsling’s Cytech‑qualified technicians can take care of everything for you. Our  professional servicing  goes far beyond a home clean, with three levels of service designed to give your bike exactly the attention it needs.

Whether you want a deep clean, a full strip‑down, or complete peace of mind before the summer season, Handsling have you covered.