Having a mountain bike is not all fun and rides. It also comes with a bit of responsibility. To lengthen its life, learn how to clean your mountain bike like a pro.

How to Clean Your Mountain Bike Right

1 – Find a Good Place to Efficiently Clean Your Bike

A good spot needs to have a bike stand and access to running water. Set your bike in a spot with a bike stand or something to lean your bike against while you wash it.

2 – Wash it with Water

Hose off the dirt from your bike. But don't stand too close if you're using a pressurized hose. Or it will damage some parts of your bike.

Use a sponge to wipe off the dirt water alone can't get rid off.

If a hose is not available, just fill a basin with water, dip the sponge and wipe the bike.

3 – Use a Brush

Use a brush on the bike parts where water and sponge aren't enough to clean it.

A brush is really helpful for cleaning the drivetrain. This includes the chainrings, chain, cassette, derailleur, cranks, and pedals.

4 – Carefully Clean The Drivetrain and Suspension

This is the tedious step in cleaning your mountain bike. You need to be meticulous when cleaning the drivetrain. It involves a lot of small, moving parts where dirt can easily hide.

If you're not diligent about cleaning the drivetrain and suspension, dirt and grime will accumulate over time and damage your bike. And it will cost you a lot to replace some parts.

Also, be careful that you're doing it right, as you might cause damage while cleaning your bike.

5 – Dry Your Bike

Shake the bike a little to get rid of water hiding in some parts.

Use a cloth to dry your mountain bike. Pay special attention to the drivetrain and suspension. Make sure they're completely dry so they don't rust.

6 – Lube

When the chain and other moving parts dry, squeeze some lubricant on them. Wipe off any excess lube.

Make sure not to put lubricant on the disc brakes.

Tips for Cleaning Your Mountain Bike

Use Bike Cleaners: Bike cleaners may be underestimated but they actually help a lot. They can remove dirt that hosing alone can't. But never spray bike cleaners on the suspension.

Local Bike Shops: If you don't have a space at home, a good place to clean your bike is your local bike shop or at the local trail center.

Wipe Off Extra Lube: Leaving your chains greasy will attract more dirt.

Cover the Calipers: Cover the calipers with a plastic bag and secure it with elastic. This is to ensure that no oil, polish, or bike wash can reach your disc brakes.

Have Different Brush Sizes: It's good to have big and small sized brushes. Small brushes are good for cleaning tight areas like the one between spokes.

Polish your Bike: With a soft rag, wipe your bike with polish. It will not only make your bike shiny but it will also keep dirt away. The polish gives your bike a protective outer layer.