Winter tune-up could lead to a smoother ride once spring hits

By Lethbridge Herald on February 21, 2026.

Herald Photo by Joe Manio Mat Hellawell cleans and lubricates a bike chain at BikeLane. Winter is a great time for riders to prepare for spring roads and prevent winter corrosion before the season officially begins.

By Joe Manio

Lethbridge Herald 

Mild weather gives Lethbridge riders a head start — and local experts say a 

late-winter tune-up now means safer, smoother cycling when spring arrives

The countdown to spring riding season has quietly begun in Lethbridge. While winter isn’t officially over, warmer-than-usual temperatures have cyclists eyeing the roads — and local experts say a late-winter tune-up could be the difference between a smooth first ride and a frustrating one.

At BikeLane, owner Mat Hellawell says this time of year offers a strategic advantage for riders who want to get ahead of the rush.

“Because you beat the rush of all the people who wait until the nice weather comes, this way your bike is ready when the nice weather hits,” Hellawell said. “Parts are more available at this time of year because it’s when we get restocked from suppliers. If there is a wait for parts, you still have some time before you want to ride.”

Winter conditions — even during a mild season — can quietly take a toll on components. Salt, sand and moisture accelerate wear, particularly on exposed metal.

“Corrosion,” Hellawell said, when asked about the most common winter-related damage he sees. “It comes in a few forms on bikes — rust on steel components such as bolts and chain. Oxidization of the aluminum is also possible.”

“To prevent this, we urge cyclists to keep on top of cleaning and maintaining in the harsh conditions. As the freeze-thaw cycle hits Lethbridge, we urge a daily rinse and application of frame protection sprays,” he added.

For riders pulling their bikes out of storage for the first time since fall, Hellawell recommends a simple pre-ride check.

“Tire pressure and chain,” he says.. “ABC is a good check for a bike — Air, Brakes, Chain. If the tires have good air pressure, the brakes hold the bike as you push off the handlebars, and the chain is in the proper place and lubricated properly, the bike should be good to go.”

Temperature swings can complicate that first outing.

“Yes, pressure changes drastically with temperature changes. If bikes are stored in a heated garage, when the rider goes out the tires can start to feel squishy after the air temp drops to ambient,” he says.

When it comes to safety, he points to details that are quick to inspect but critical on the road.

“Checking brake pad health and the tightness of QR axles.That makes a big difference,” he says.

Riders who aren’t comfortable tackling maintenance themselves have options. Local shops, including BikeLane and Ascent Cycle, offer professional tune-ups — and both also run bicycle maintenance courses for those who want to learn the basics and handle routine care on their own.

“Riders should bring their bike to a shop when they do not feel confident in doing the repairs themselves. Bikes should also be brought to a professional yearly to ensure nothing is missed,” Hellawell says.

This winter’s stretch of positive temperatures has already translated into activity at the shop.

“Yes, the positive temperatures are very big for the local cycling community. We got a lot of bikes in for tune-ups during the warm stretch, he says.

Still, he cautions riders not to rush the seasonal transition.

“The biggest mistake riders make is filling tires in cold temps and failing to re-check when the temperature increases.Taking studded tires off too early is another one,” he says.

Salt corrosion, he added, can develop faster than many expect.

“It can happen very quickly. Chains and cassettes are usually the most susceptible, along with any exposed steel, frames and bolts,” Hellawell says.

As anticipation builds for longer, sunnier rides, preparation remains only part of the equation. Visibility and awareness are just as important — especially when motorists may not expect cyclists in late-winter conditions.

“Keep your chin up and watch for cars. Motorists will not be expecting to see cyclists in inclement weather. Bright colours and lights are the best way to be seen,” he says.

With spring edging closer, a few preventative steps now — whether done at home or in the shop — could mean rolling confidently into the season instead of scrambling to fix problems once warm weather fully arrives.