Cleaning and maintaining a mountain bike can go terribly wrong. And the higher the bike’s quality, the worse the consequences of mistakes. There are countless tips out there, but not all of them are useful. Here are my proven basic rules:
Basic Cleaning Rules
Your MTB does not need a full wash after every ride. A thorough cleaning is only necessary when excessive dirt has accumulated or when moving parts are affected. In winter, extra caution is needed: Cold and road salt combined with water can be disastrous for your bike.
Pressure Washer – Really Forbidden?
Pressure washing is often considered a no-go, but it’s not entirely off-limits. The key is how you use it. Blasting high-pressure water directly onto bearings, seals, or electronics is reckless. However, keeping a safe distance and using moderate pressure (below 5 bar) can be an effective cleaning method. If you have access to a garden hose, that’s the better option. Standard water pressure (around 3 bar) is much gentler and poses less risk to your bike’s components.
What About eBikes?
Even though eMTBs are water-resistant, they are not invincible. The motor is well-sealed, but water can still seep into connectors or the frame. Electronics should be cleaned with care. After washing, dry all connections thoroughly and apply protective sealants. Avoid WD-40 or similar oils, as they can cause oxidation on ground cables. We are currently testing „WET.PROTECT“ from Liquid Evolution GmbH, which has already proven itself in the automotive and motorcycle industries.
Shampoo – Yes or No?
Many cleaner manufacturers sell expensive specialty shampoos. My opinion: Stay away! Shampoo reduces the surface tension of water, allowing it to penetrate bearings and small openings more easily. If you must use it, do so only once a year and follow up with thorough aftercare. Let your bike dry at room temperature for at least 24 hours after washing. Then, treat the frame and plastic parts with hard wax or a nano-coating. Important: Suspension stanchions should always be cleaned separately after every ride.
Secret Tip: Cleaning Without High Pressure
A GLORIA pressure sprayer (e.g., Prima 5 Comfort) is a gentle alternative to a pressure washer. With 3 bar of working pressure, one tank is enough for a regular dirt ride and is much safer for your bike. If you’re lazy, you can even connect it to an air compressor.
Conclusion: Clean your bike wisely, use high pressure with care, and protect the electronics. This way, your MTB will stay in top shape and ready for any adventure!
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