When a bicycle is left in the rain, it can get rusty. The brakes may stop working properly, the chain can become stiff, and the paint may start to fade. Over time, the cycle will not last as long, and your child may not enjoy riding it anymore. A damaged cycle can also become unsafe, especially if the brakes or tires are not working well. Small issues like these often go unnoticed until they become big problems.
As a parent, you want your child’s cycle to be safe, clean, and always ready for the next adventure. You want them to enjoy every ride without worrying about whether the bicycle is working or not. The good news is that a little regular care can help a lot. It doesn’t take much time or effort, and the results are worth it.
These simple steps are easy to follow and can be done with your child too. In fact, involving your child makes the process fun and meaningful. It’s a great way to spend time together, teach them responsibility, and show them how to take care of things they love. Even five minutes after a ride can make a big difference in keeping their cycle in great shape.
1. Store the bicycle in a Dry Place
The best way to protect a bicycle from the rain is to keep it in a dry, covered place. A garage, a hallway, a roofed balcony, or even under the stairs at home can work well. If the cycle stays outside in the open, water will collect on the frame, the chain, and the brakes. Over time, this causes rust and other damage.
Try to keep the bicycle in a space that also has fresh air so that it stays dry and clean. You can also use a simple waterproof bicycle cover if you do not have indoor space. Even a plastic sheet is better than nothing. Some families in apartments hang the bicycle on the wall using a hook to save space. This is a great idea if you have limited room at home. Encourage your child to bring the bicycle in after every ride and make it part of their routine.
2. Wipe the bicycle After It Gets Wet
If the bicycle gets caught in the rain, it should be wiped dry as soon as possible. Use a clean, dry cloth to wipe the frame, seat, handlebars, and especially the chain. Water left on these parts can quickly cause rust. Even a small amount of moisture, if not cleaned, can lead to long-term damage. Make sure to also dry the brakes and pedals. A wet seat can also make riding uncomfortable and may start to smell over time.
Wiping the bicycle also removes dirt and mud, keeping it looking clean and new. You can keep a cloth near your door or inside your child’s school bag, so it’s always ready. Doing this regularly teaches your child to care for their belongings, just like they care for their shoes or school bag.
3. Apply Chain Oil or Lubricant
During the rainy season, rainwater can wash away the oil that protects the bicycle chain and gears. When the chain becomes dry, it can make squeaky sounds and feel hard to pedal. To fix this, dry the chain completely and apply a few drops of chain oil while gently rotating the pedals. Then, use a cloth to remove the extra oil. This helps the chain stay smooth and rust-free. A well-oiled chain makes riding easier and more enjoyable. It also makes the parts last longer.
You can buy good chain oil from any local cycle shop or online. Try to apply it every two to three weeks when it rains often. Don’t use too much oil because it can attract dust. If you feel unsure, you can wait for your next Gro Club service visit and let the expert do it for you.
4. Check Brakes and Tires Often
Rain can make brakes less effective. If the brakes are slippery or loose, your child may not be able to stop quickly while riding. Wet weather also wears out tires faster. Once a week, press the brake levers and check if they stop the wheel quickly. If the brakes feel soft or don’t grip well, they may need to be cleaned or replaced. Also, look at the tires and see if they still have a good grip. If the rubber looks too smooth or worn out, it’s time for a new set.
Flat tires or low air pressure can also make riding harder and more risky. You can keep a simple air pump at home and show your child how to check the tires. These small checks make a big difference in keeping your child safe during wet rides.
5. Avoid Riding Through Deep Water
Kids love splashing through puddles, but riding through deep water is not safe for the bicycle. Water can enter the gears, the pedals, and the bottom bracket. This causes rust, slows down movement, and can even spoil the internal parts.
Try to teach your child how to spot safe paths and avoid puddles that look too deep. You can explain that riding around the water keeps the cycle healthy for longer. If the bicycle does go through water, wash it with clean water and wipe it dry afterwards. Check if mud or stones are stuck in the wheels or near the chain. If the bicycle feels hard to ride after this, it may need oiling or cleaning again. This is also a good time to ask for service if you notice any issues.
6. Cover the Seat
No one likes sitting on a wet cycle seat. It is uncomfortable and can also cause the seat material to crack or smell bad over time. A waterproof seat cover can keep the seat dry even if the rest of the cycle gets wet. You can also use a small plastic bag in an emergency. Keep a spare cover or plastic sheet in your child’s school bag or backpack during the rainy season. If your child parks the cycle outdoors at school or tuition class, they can quickly cover the seat.
This simple habit protects the seat and makes every ride more comfortable. Dry seats also mean dry clothes, which every parent will appreciate. You can even keep an extra cover at home in case one gets lost.
7. Use Rust-Protection Spray
For extra protection, a rust-protection spray can be used on metal parts like the chain, screws, bolts, and spokes. These sprays form a thin layer that keeps moisture away from the surface. They are easy to find in cycle shops and safe to use if applied correctly.
Make sure to spray only on the metal parts and avoid the brakes, tires, and seats. Use it in an open area and let it dry fully before the bicycle is used again. During the rainy season, spraying once a month is usually enough. Before applying, clean the parts well so the spray works properly. If you are unsure where to spray, you can ask your Gro Club service person to apply it during a regular check-up.
Rain or shine, Gro Club makes caring for your child’s bicycle effortless. With 18 months of service included and expert help delivered right to your doorstep, maintaining and upgrading your ride is completely stress-free. You can explore all our bicycle accessories, enjoy smooth rides, and grow together without ever leaving home.
Start today with one or two steps. Your child’s cycle will thank you with many more happy rides.
