Washing the Bike Without Harming It

A proper wash is half maintenance, half inspection: with the grime gone, a cracked frame, a frayed cable or a worn pad is easy to spot. Start with the dirtiest part, the chain and drivetrain, using degreaser and a brush, then do the rest of the bike with warm soapy water and a soft brush or sponge, keeping oily grime and lube away from the brake rotors and pads. Rinse from the top down with a gentle, wide spray. Never aim a pressure washer at the parts packed with grease, such as the hubs, headset and bottom bracket; keep any pressure well back from them. Let the bike dry, or towel it off while you look it over, and always oil the chain afterwards, because washing strips the lube.