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More and more people are getting into mountain biking. Very few people, though, properly maintain their bikes. One of the most important aspects of mountain bike maintenance is lubrication. Keeping your bike’s moving parts well-lubricated will help keep your bike in top shape for a long time. Failing to keep your bike properly lubed will lead to a shortened lifespan for your bike and its parts.

The most basic advice to heed when it comes to keeping your bike lubed, is that if there’s a moving part, it needs to be lubricated. There are some parts which are best left to the experts. It’s unlikely that you’ll want to pull the bearings out of your headset or from inside the front crankshaft or hubs, but there are plenty of parts which are easy to access and which appreciate a regular and thorough lubing.

When purchasing lube for your bike, it’s advised to buy a product specifically designed for bikes. They’re perfectly formulated for the specific needs of bicycles. These lubricants typically come in drip or spray dispensers.

Now take a look at your mountain bike’s derailleurs. If you’re having trouble with shifting gears, then there’s a good chance your derailleurs need some lubrication. In case you don’t know, the derailleur is the part that moves the chain from gear to gear. Wherever there’s a movable point on the derailleur, apply lubricant. This includes the little adjustment barrel. Some lube there will keep it from rusting and making it impossible to adjust.

Turn your bike upside down, move the pedals and shift gears. Wherever you see the derailleur moving and exposing sections, add some lubricant. Don’t overdo it, though. Wipe up any excess drips.

Another important place to apply lube is the chain. A well-lubricated chain will last a long time and it will shift from gear to gear easier. Either turn the bike upside down or mount it on a rack if you have one, and slowly crank the pedals. As the chain cycles around, apply lubricant by either spraying it or dripping it on. Wipe off any lubricant which accidentally lands on the frame or anywhere else.

The pedals can also use a regular application of lubricant. Of course you don’t want to put any on the pedal grips unless you have cartoon capers in mind, but you do want to apply some to where they attach to the cranks.

It may surprise you to hear that the brakes require lubrication. You don’t want to get any grease on the brake shoes, though! Keep the lube away from the rims, too. Where you do want to apply lubricant is on the pivot points where the brakes move. Wherever there’s a moving joint or metal on metal, you want to apply lubricant. The brake levers themselves can use some lube, too. Again, you’ll want to apply it on the pivot points on the levers and not the lever itself.

A well-lubricated mountain bike will last longer than one that’s neglected. It’ll ride nicer, too. Remember to regularly lubricate the parts you can easily access and talk to your local bike shop about further mountain bike maintenance.

Mountain biking in cold weather has always been a challenge. The problem is that you’ll start out cold then warm up and break a sweat, making yourself wet. Then, when you travel downhill, the combination of wet skin and windchill will be quite chilling.

Below, you’ll find a list of the cold weather clothing that will make winter riding less of a bone chilling experience.

Booties

In cold temperatures, your feet are the most vulnerable part of your anatomy. Pressure from pedaling will tend to cut off the circulation to your toes, which can put you at a risk of frostbite. In cold conditions, neoprene booties are a must have. They will zip over your shoes and even have a pattern in the sole where you can cut out a piece for cleats.

Gloves

There are several manufacturers that make “lobster gloves”, a hybrid glove that separates your index finger and thumb from the rest of your hand. These gloves are warmer than regular gloves, and the distinct index finger will allow you to operate your shifting and brake levers.

In case your hands get cold, you should carry a pair of lightweight glove liners will you as well. If you have to stop to take care of a problem, the liners will protect your hands from the cold.

Glasses

Glasses that wraparound and provide maximum protection from the wind are best to wear in the winter. You can protect yourself from debris, as well as the cold.

Socks

You should wear heavy socks although not to heavy. A sock that is overly heavy will make your shoes tight, cut off circulation, even make your feet cold. You should try lightweight socks, as they will keep your feet warm without bulk. If you need an extra layer, try silk ski socks as they are very warm and also extra lightweight.

Underwear

Polypropylene is the best material here, as it is lightweight and best for colder temperatures.

Wind Protection

Moving air is the biggest cause for losing body heat. By having good wind protection you’ll be able to vent perspiration while also protecting yourself from windchill. You should choose pants and a jacket based on durability, breathing, and price as these types of clothing can get very experience.

Helmet and Liners

Your head is very important, as you lose 50% of your body heat through your head. A helmet is designed to keep you cool in the summer, not warm in the winter. A fleece liner inside your helmet will keep your head and ears warm during winter riding.