Bicycle Mechanics - Sand, sand, and more sand

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72andsunny
03-07-05, 11:05 PM
The Mrs. and I just bought a new tandem, and if we ride within a few blocks of the beach, the sand seems to seek us out. After one ride, the seatposts were already gritty. Does anybody have any tips on bicycle cleaning/maintenance that I should be doing to counteract this sand problem?

Thanks,

Captain Mike

BillK
03-08-05, 04:22 AM
Hmmm...there must be some California/Oregon/Florida riders here who can dole out some hands-on experience, but here's a few thoughts in the meantime:

Grease your stem & seatpost.
Wash off the bike after your rides.
Keep your chain clean and lubed.
Lastly, try waxing a small portion of your bike and see if it repels or attracts sand.
phantomcow2
03-08-05, 04:27 AM
well you know if you ride at the beach, sand is the nature of the beast. I do find though that waxing my frame helps repel dirt and whatnot. And if it does stick then its easier to clean off. Try using a dry lube for your chain, it wont attract so much crap but I personally dont like them.

MichaelW
03-08-05, 05:04 AM
Clean the frame then wax it with car wax.
Use a dry lube on the chain
Ensure your bearings are packed full of grease. The sane cannot entter if they are full.
Do not wipe sand from the bearing seals, you may force it inside: Rinse it off.
Greasing the seat-tube inside the frame is always a good idea, but wipe the post with a clean cloth to ensure minimal grease and clean the exposed section to avoid sand sticking. Do you have a suspension post? That may be more problematic.