|
|
|
|
 |
|
|
|
|
 |
Cleaning the Exposed Cables
on Your Bicycle
Cleaning
and maintaining any and all exposed cables on your
bicycle is another
one of those minimal tasks that if neglected, can cause problems in the
future. Much will depend on the geographic area or climate where you live and ride.
In warmer climates with high humidity, rust can appear on your cables in
as quickly as a week. Combine that with the "sweat" factor and problems
could develop rather quickly. Now, this won't
affect some of your newer bikes with internal cable routing. However,
you will have exposed cables on your brakes and your front and rear derailleur. I have
seen these cables snap because of rust brought about by neglect. The process
takes about two minutes of your time so take the time and add some
protection. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1)
This is one reason I like to use a water proof grease. Phil
Woods is my favorite, but there are others. This is also
something that you will want to do every week no matter what,
even if you do not perform a total bike clean-up. It is not
full-proof but it will help.
2) Prior to this step, you will want to remove any
existing dirt or rus from the cables. This can be as simple as
wiping down the cables with a cloth doused with some degreaser.
If there is too much rust, you have to use other means. I do not
recommend using sandpaper to remove the rust. If the cables are
in poor condition, it would be easier to replace them. Cable
only costs a few bucks. Otherwise, use bronze wool (which you
can pick up at any hardware store) and some naval jelly (again
at any hardware or boating store) to remove the rust. Use gloves
as well.
3) After cleaning the cables, put a little grease between
your fingers (photo 1) and run your
fingers along all exposed cable (photo 2).
This will put a light film along the cable and help ward off
moisture until your next cleaning. |
 |
|
|
|
|
| |
| |
|
|
