Preparing Your Tricycle for Winter: Maintaining Your Tricycle’s ‘Life-cycle’
It’s the time of year where the clocks have gone back, the weather has changed and we’re in a situation where we need to not only look after ourselves, but also make sure that you’re giving your tricycle the TLC that it needs to ensure it stays in perfect working order across winter.
Looking after your adult tricycle doesn’t just ensure it remains looking great, but it means there’s less chance of any technical issues and, most importantly, it remains safe as you take it out on the road throughout winter. Follow some of these tips and you’ll be well on your way to keeping your tricycle riding smoothly throughout the winter months.
Parts to Keep an Eye On
Battery
Cold weather, where temperatures drop considerably, can affect your tricycle’s battery performance. We pride ourselves on only using the best batteries, but that doesn’t mean that they’re invincible. To ensure your battery stays in great condition and its lifespan is preserved, don’t leave it outdoors or in outbuildings like a shed or garage when temperatures start to plummet. On top of this, even if you’re not planning on riding your tricycle any time soon, try and keep at least some partial charge in your battery to keep it running at its most efficient.
Storage
Storage of your tricycle across the winter months is crucial. Rusting is a common occurrence across the colder months for bicycles, electric bikes and tricycles alike, as a drop in temperature can cause condensation and moisture in the air. One way to help avoid rust on your tricycle is by simply keeping your trike clean. Any mud, dirt or grit can be corrosive, so a gentle wash can help remove this and prevent rust when dried properly. You must also ensure that you keep your tricycle in a dry place. Make sure you keep on top of lubrication and disconnect the battery when in storage to help maintain its performance and longevity.
Tyres
Colder air can cause your tyre pressure to go down, so make sure you’re checking your tyres before taking your trike out for a ride. Under inflated tyres can contribute to reduced traction and are more likely to become completely flat. By riding on underinflated tyres, you’re also putting your tricycle rims at risk, as without the protection of an air cushion in the tyres, any bumps and jumps could lead to damage. On top of that it also means that you could see decreased range from your tricycle as your tricycle needs more help from the battery. Make sure that you’re checking your pressure regularly and be careful not to overinflate too – the ideal PSI will be written on the side of the tyre. You can find out more tips here.
Everyday maintenance
Similar to a car, electric tricycles need regular servicing to maintain their longevity and keep you riding safely for years to come. Checking things like your brake pads, and tyre pressure are integral to your trike maintenance, alongside cleaning your chain and lubricating for the appropriate weather. If you are unsure, you can always speak to our experts, who will provide guidance. We can also help you source a local technician to carry out a service on your tricycle, just get in touch and we can help point you in the right direction.
It’s Always Best to Get Ahead
As the old saying goes, the best preparation for tomorrow is doing your best today. If you prepare for the colder winter months in advance, then you’re adding to your trikes ‘life-cycle’ as wear and tear will happen if you are regularly riding your tricycle.
We’ve also put together some advice on riding your tricycle in winter to help you ensure you stay safe out on the roads. If you ever need any further support or have any questions, you can speak to our friendly Jorvik team, or pop into one of our showrooms to say hello at any time!