with Amy Martin of Sustrans

Welcome to the third and penultimate edition of our four-part series on winter cycling.

We’re enjoying a late summer, but when the weather does turn there’s no need to automatically relegate your bicycle back into the shed or garage.

Here, we’re covering how to keep your bicycle well-maintained and running smoothly through the chillier and wetter months.

There is also an opportunity to register your interest in receiving a free ‘winterise your bike’ pack (see details below).

Bikes tend to deteriorate more quickly in the winter months when things become loose easily in the wet.

Our initial advice is to have your bike serviced (in the same way you would do your car) just before the weather turns, so that it’s well-primed for more testing conditions.

There are a number of places you can have this done in Swindon. We have at least half a dozen excellent bike shops locally, including independents, as well as mobile cycle mechanics who will service your bike at home or at work.

Search ‘cycle shops’ on Swindon Travel Choices website for a comprehensive list: www.swindontravelchoices.co.uk After your service, the key then is to look after your bike well. Water, particularly mixed with road salt, is really tough on your bike.

After riding in bad weather, it’s a good idea to give your bike five minutes of TLC to keep things running smoothly: l First, give it a general rinse and wipe down to remove dirt, salt and grit. Pay particular attention to the chain, gears, brakes and wheel rims; l When you’re done, dry it off with an old towel; l Disperse any excess water in moving parts with a spray of WD40, GT85, or something similar; l Finally, apply some bike oil or lubricant to the chain and gear mechanism.

If you’re unsure on what products to use, or which exact parts of your bike need attention, your local bike shop will be more than pleased to show you.

There is also a wealth of information on the Sustrans website – just search ‘bicycle maintenance’ on www.sustrans.org.uk.

Sustrans will be keeping cyclists going this winter by offering free winter cycling packs where you can get guides and information, and freebies such as lights and rucksack covers. Everyone who orders a pack will also receive discount vouchers for Exposure Lights and 20% off the Sustrans shop.

Pre-register your interest by emailing swindon@sustrans.org.uk