How to Prevent Salt Corrosion on Your Bike
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This article mentions third-party trailer hitches that are not manufactured by Tern. Please note that hitch designs might change, and that their manufacturers may choose to maintain the same product name even after the design has changed.
For your safety, always consult with your bike dealer, or with the bike trailer manufacturer or reseller, to make sure you have the right components to safely tow your trailer.
Photo by JESHOOTS.COM on Unsplash
If you’re reading this, you might have noticed a rusty spot (or two) on your bike. While Tern bikes are made to withstand the elements, salt corrosion could be an issue depending on where you live. In this article, we’ve enlisted Perennial Cycle’s help to explain what salt corrosion and rust are and how to deal with them.
Contents
1. What are salt corrosion and rust?
2. How common is salt corrosion?
3. How to prevent salt corrosion on my bike?
4. Are there any other best practices?
1. What are salt corrosion and rust?
When metal meets salt and moisture, it can lead to corrosion or rust. Corrosion is the general word for metal deterioration due to a chemical reaction. So, salt corrosion is the metal degradation as a result of the combination of salt and moisture. This combination speeds up oxidation, making the metal lose its strength more quickly. Rust specifically refers to the corrosion of iron or steel, typically when these metals react with oxygen and moisture.
Since steel and aluminum are the two most common metals in bikes, you might want to check your bike for some reddish-brown spots regularly. If you see them and don’t give them immediate attention, your bike can corrode pretty rapidly.
2. How common is salt corrosion?
Salt corrosion is most common in coastal areas and snowy places—and if that sounds like where you live, you should pay extra attention to your bike. Sea mist carries sea salt particles inland, and in winter, salt is often spread on roads to lower the freezing point of water. If you see a single rusty-looking bolt or scratch on one part of your bike, then it’s likely just topical corrosion. If you see multiple rusty spots all over the place, then it’s more likely salt corrosion.
3. How to prevent salt corrosion on my bike?
It’s super simple. Have a good cleaning routine… and stick to it!
- Regularly clean your bike with fresh water and thoroughly dry it afterward.
- Consider using a protective spray on your bike, such as the ones from Boeshield, GT85, and Fluid Film.
- If the bike paint is chipped, use touch-up paint to prevent further spread of corrosion or rust.
4. Are there any other best practices?
- Store your bike indoors in a dry area.
- Additionally, bring your bike in for service regularly. Your dealer may spot corrosion or other issues you otherwise may not be aware of.