If you're a cyclist, you might find your bike to be really inconvenient when cycling season is over. It might be time to get out holiday decorations and you won't have as much space for your bike. With a storage unit, you'll be able to store your bike without taking up space in your home. Your bike will also be much safer in a storage unit. However, you'll need to know how to prepare your bike for storage. 

Winterize Your Bike

Before you place your bike in a storage unit, make sure to winterize it. Wash it to remove any mud or grime. Otherwise, your bike will become corroded and will be in much worse shape when it's time to get it out of storage. Put air in the tires and lubricate the chain so that your bike is in good condition and is ready to go when it is time to put it back into use. If your bike is not in good condition, you might want to take it to a bike repair shop before putting it in storage. If your bike is in very bad condition, it might be time to consider having it replaced. 

Be Careful Where You Store It

There may be places around your home to store your bike, but these might be the worst places to put your bike if you want it to last a long time. For example, you don't want to simply place your bike up against a wall, in a storage shed that is not properly protected from the elements, or outside with the kickstand propping it up. 

If you will be storing your bike in a storage unit, be careful to prop it up so that it does not fall and damage other belongings that you have in storage. Otherwise, you'll not only damage your bike, but you might also damage other things. Try to use a bike rack so that your bike will be more secure. 

Storing Your Bike for an Extended Period

If you are going to store your bike for an extended time period, you should cover it up. Otherwise, your bike will be more likely to attract moisture and will be more likely to rust. While you can use a storage unit to temporarily store your bike until it's time to put it to use again, if you have limited space, you can store it in a storage unit all year. However, make sure to choose a storage unit that is easily accessible. 

For more information, contact a storage facility, such as LoDo Self Storage & Moving Center.