I'm planning on commuting my '07 Trek Soho through the winter. I try to take really good care of it and only have one scratch (where my spd cleat nicked the paint when I tightened up my laces with my foot on the top tube (d'oh).

While I'm not totally opposed to my bike looking used, I like it to look good. With Michigan's salty roads, I'm wondering if I'll need to take any special care (or apply some sort of protectant) in addition to some full fenders.

I was considering something basic like Packing Tape along the bottom of the down tube, but wasn't sure if that would peel off the paint.

Any tips?

'06 Marin Novato through the salty winter of Central/Upstate, NY.

The frame was fine, besides needed a cleaning. The components took a beating though and there isn't a whole lot you can do except the fenders and mud flaps to keep the elements off them.

Packing tape seems very adhesive and possibly too thin. Some riders use "helicopter tape". I think its a 3M product and at most airports you will find mechanics using it.

I use it on the frames of my bikes where the cable rubs against the frame. And on the frame where the frame pump may bump against the frame.

But since I'm in Southern Calif, I don't see any salt, snow, ice roads anymore. I was from Roseville, MI so I know what you mean.