Taking good care of your bike after a ride in the rain.

First thing to do on your return: a good old-fashioned check-up. We start with a quick visual inspection. See any mud on the tires? That's normal 😅. We'll get to the cleaning part later. What we're looking for here are any anomalies. A bent spoke, a chain that's acting up 😒, that sort of thing.

If you have a road bike or mountain bike, pay attention to any debris that might have lodged itself between the wheels or brakes. For EAB fans, take a look at the battery. Make sure it's secure and that water hasn't damaged it.🔋💧

Then turn the wheels, apply the brakes and change gears. Everything running smoothly? Perfect, you're on the right track. 🛣️

Finally, we recommend checking the chain tension. A chain that's too tight or too loose is like jeans that are too tight or too baggy: it can ruin everything! 😣

There, in just a few minutes, you've done the trick and your bike is ready for the next steps. Yes, we told you it would be quick! Come on, enough blabla, let's get down to business! 🎉

We start with the basics: a good bike cleaner. Not the washing-up liquid in your cupboard, we're talking about products specially designed for bikes. These are ideal for removing ingrained dirt without damaging paintwork or components. A real rejuvenation cure for your bike! 🚲

In the same vein, consider using a bike brush specially designed to clean every nook and cranny of your two-wheeler (or 4 if you still have small wheels 😜). Kits are available in various shapes and sizes. 🖌️

🎯 Chain, tires, brakes: the three musketeers of cleaning

For the chain, opt for a specific cleaner and lubricant. If you neglect it, it could well take revenge by letting rust creep in! 🚴‍♂️

Tires, those little rubber jewels, also deserve special attention. A good brushing to remove dirt, and you're good to go! 🚀

And what about the brakes? A special brake degreaser will do the trick. We want it to brake dry, especially when the road is wet, don't we? 🛑

👑 The saddle, the throne not to be neglected

We finish cleaning the bike with the saddle (well, your order will be right 👌), that soft cushion that supports us in all our adventures (you don't get sore buttocks on a bike anymore, do you? 🤔)! Don't neglect it, it deserves its little swipe with a waterproof cloth to prevent any water infiltration. 🌧️

Your bike's as shiny as a new penny, and you thought you were done? Just a little more effort for complete maintenance! 💪

We start with the waterproof jacket. You know, the one that makes you look like a velotaf superhero in the rain! 😎 It deserves a good cleaning every now and then. Follow the instructions on the label and avoid the dryer, which could ruin its waterproofing.

🧤 Gloves, helmet and backpack: little treasures to pamper

Gloves are the comfort and safety at the fingertips of cyclists. So, to bring them back to life, a little gentle washing and air-drying will do the trick. 🌬️

Helmets? A damp cloth to clean it and it's as good as new. For the backpack, a waterproof cover is a good solution against bad weather. Come on, let's pamper these little things, they repay us so well! 🎒

👟 Keeping your shoes looking their best

Your shoes need a little love, especially after wading through puddles. Remove the soles if possible and let them dry naturally. No, not in front of the radiator, unless you want them to warp! 👟

📱 Electrical gadgets: because they need love too

Do you ride with a GPS, a connected watch or a camera? Remember to check that they're waterproof. If not, protective covers are a good idea. And for the battery, a quick wipe with a dry cloth never hurts. Remember, electronics and water are a bit like cats and dogs: they don't mix well! 🐱🐶

So we brushed, scrubbed, cleaned and even talked softly to our electronic gadgets to reassure them after the rain. Feels a bit like being in a household products ad, doesn't it? But wait, we now know that the skies won't always be kind. So how can we prepare for the next deluge? 🌧️

First, invest in good equipment. Oh no, not the "cosmonaut pants" kind. We're talking about appropriate, waterproof clothing. You know, the kind that lets you brave wind, rain and sometimes even hail in style. 🌧️ Some tips here: Cycling in autumn: how to dress for it?

Another tip? Shoe covers! These will keep your little feet dry and protect them from the cold, even if you're riding through a deluge. And for braking, special wet-weather pads can make a big difference. You don't want to end up sliding around like you're on an ice rink, do you? ⛸️

If you're the type to take your office or home with you, consider waterproof panniers. Not sexy, you say? Well, there are some classy models out there! 🎒

And let's not forget the athlete's body(yes, yes, yours!). A little anti-chafing cream can prevent more than a little discomfort. It's like a hug for your skin, but in a tube! 🤗

So, ready to face the next downpour like a Tour de France cyclist? Rest assured, even they started by pedaling through their first rain. Come on, let's keep smiling - the next downpour's got to be a good one! 🌧️🌈