Matt144

I had been storing a couple bikes outside in a bike tent for most of the winter, and that had been fine, until cats started tearing holes in the weakened vinyl and turning it into a litter box. So I tore down the tent and started covering the bikes with a canvas tarp. Between the tarp and the awning above it, the bikes see hardly any rain. However, within a couple weeks, both bike chains started to rust incredibly fast. I mentioned that to a fellow commuter this morning, and he believed that the tarp is doing more harm than good by keeping moisture in. Has anyone heard something like this before? Any scientists out there on the forum able to confirm this theory?

wphamilton

Air flow or ventilation, and ground cloth. I think it helps to leave at least a few inches between the ground and the bottom of the tarp.

Dave Horne

I don't have a garage for my car and my car is worth more than my bike (though not by much).

StanSeven

It doesn't take much of a scientist to realize what's going on. The tarp traps moisture and it can't get out. With no breeze, water just stays on metal. You need to allow air to circulate. Ideally it gets air from below as well as above. You can leave room at the bottom and should construct a covered vent at the top.

RussB

The same as a glass of cold water sweats on the outside, Moisture inside a tent can condense on the coldest object inside the tent (especially metal). So any trapped moisture inside the tent can condense on objects inside the tent when the temperature drops.

Winter wasn't a problem because when it's below freezing, the air is dryer and any frost on the bike usually won't cause rust.

Consider storing your bike indoors. I got mine hanging up on the wall in my bedroom.

fietsbob

at least dont under oil the chain, leave a film of oil on the chains..