Folding Bikes - Downtube in winter?

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iowayank
12-06-07, 12:13 AM
Hi-

I've enjoyed my Downtube IXFS this fall, and after some time off decided to ride to work today. Some ice on the roads, 20 degrees F at most. My 'stock' IXFS did well except that the stem grease seems to have congealed, making steering difficult. The wheel bearings and BB seemed to be turning freely (in comparison).

Any recommendations on freeing up the stem - perhaps a low-temperature tolerant repacking/regreasing?

I can ride with it as-is, but am I doing any damage to the bike (I know I'm doing damage to my extremities...)?

JosephLMonti
12-06-07, 08:34 AM
Hi-

I've enjoyed my Downtube IXFS this fall, and after some time off decided to ride to work today. Some ice on the roads, 20 degrees F at most. My 'stock' IXFS did well except that the stem grease seems to have congealed, making steering difficult. The wheel bearings and BB seemed to be turning freely (in comparison).

Any recommendations on freeing up the stem - perhaps a low-temperature tolerant repacking/regreasing?

I can ride with it as-is, but am I doing any damage to the bike (I know I'm doing damage to my extremities...)?

I would check out the "Winter Cycling" Forum:

http://www.bikeforums.net/forumdisplay.php?f=53

I suspect that changing the grease to one that is winter-proof is your best bet...
rhm
12-07-07, 06:53 AM
Yesterday it was 18 degrees for my morning commute, and the hub gears on my DT Mini were very grumpy. The bike normally lives in a shed, where it's protected from rain but not from cold. So last night I brought it inside the house, so the hub wasn't so cold this morning; no problem. If you have that option, it's an easy fix.