Berlin stays active even in the cold months, and many people still ride their bikes. But winter weather brings challenges – snow, ice, and road salt. Here’s how to keep your bike safe, clean, and ready to roll through the season.
Moisture and salt cause rust quickly. Wipe your bike after every ride, especially the chain and metal parts. Use a little oil to protect the chain and screws. Clean wheels and brakes to prevent wear from road dirt.
Tip: Use bike oil instead of cooking oil – it lasts longer and protects better in cold weather.
If possible, park your bike indoors or under cover. A simple tarp or waterproof cover helps a lot. Keeping it dry prevents frozen locks and protects cables and paint from frost.
Cold weather affects moving parts. Lubricate your chain often and test your brakes before riding. Rubber brake pads can become harder in low temperatures, so replace them if needed.
Lower tire pressure slightly for better grip on wet or icy streets. Make sure your tires have enough tread – smooth tires are risky in winter. Always check your lights; Berlin’s winter days are short!
Locks freeze easily if water gets inside. Use a few drops of lock oil to prevent this. If your lock does freeze, never pour hot water – it can refreeze faster. Use a de-icer spray instead.
Extra Tip: Before your ride, check checkwetter.de for frost and snow alerts in Berlin. That way you can prepare your bike and your route safely.
With small care steps, your bike will survive Berlin’s winter easily. Clean it, cover it, and keep it ready – and you can enjoy cycling even when the city is cold and white.