How to Prep Your Bike for Spring Riding
This post contains affiliate links. This means I will make a commission at no extra cost to you should you click through and make a purchase. Read the full disclosure here.
So your bike’s been hibernating.
No judgment—winter happens.
But now the sun’s out, the trails are calling, and you’re ready to ride again.
Only one problem:
Your bike might not be. Yet.
Let’s walk through how to gently wake your bike back up after a winter snooze—so you can ride into spring feeling safe, smooth, and confident.
No bike shop visit required (unless you want one).
No fancy tools. Just a little time and TLC.
1. Give It a Visual Once-Over
Start simple:
Take your bike outside, let the light hit it, and really look at it.
What to check:
– Any obvious rust or dust?
– Flat or squishy tires?
– Anything cracked, bent, or missing?
No need to panic—this is just about noticing.
You’ll fix what you can and file the rest for later.
2. Clean Off the Winter Gunk
Even if your bike was in storage, it probably gathered some dust.
– Use a damp cloth to wipe down the frame
– Clean the chain area with a dry rag (or an old toothbrush if you’re feeling extra)
– Avoid spraying water directly near gears or brakes—just gentle wipes are perfect
Pro tip: A clean bike always feels better to ride.
3. Inflate the Tires
Chances are, your tires lost air while sitting.
This is normal. Not a disaster.
– Find the recommended PSI on the side of the tire
– Pump them up to match
– If the tires won’t inflate or look cracked/dry? Time for replacements
(Want a full how-to on this? Check this post.)
4. Check the Brakes
This is a big one.
– Squeeze both brake levers—do they feel firm?
– Spin the wheels and make sure they stop when the brakes are applied
– Look at the brake pads—do they still have grip, or are they worn down?
If anything feels off, it’s okay to pop into a bike shop for a quick adjustment.
5. Inspect the Chain
Your chain should look silvery—not dry, rusty, or black with buildup.
– If it’s dusty, wipe it clean
– If it looks dry, add a few drops of bike chain lubricant (easy to find online or at a shop)
– Pedal backward a few times to help it coat evenly
A smooth chain = less pedaling effort = happier ride.
6. Make Sure Nothing Wiggles
Hold the handlebars and rock the front wheel back and forth.
Do the same with the seat. The wheels. The pedals.
Everything should feel solid, not loose.
If something’s wiggling and you’re not sure what to do, jot it down and swing by a local shop later.
You don’t have to fix it all today.
7. Go for a Tiny Test Ride
Just around the block.
This isn’t about distance—it’s about feel.
– Do the gears shift?
– Are the brakes smooth?
– Any weird noises?
If everything feels okay, you’re ready for longer rides.
If not? Make a note. No shame in learning as you go.
Final Thoughts
Spring riding should feel fresh, easy, and freeing.
And giving your bike a little pre-season tune-up helps you roll into that joy with confidence.
No stress. No rush.
Just you, your bike, and a trail full of possibilities.
Let’s ride.
