Protect your ride with a layer of TLC

Winter brings snow, sleet, and road salt, which can be tough on your bike's frame and components. Start by giving your bike a thorough cleaning to remove any dirt or debris. Apply a protective coating like a high-quality wax or specialised bike polish, to shield your bike's finish from the elements.

This extra layer of TLC will not only keep your Veloretti looking sleek and stylish but will also help prevent rust and corrosion. Our team likes Gtechniq Ceramic Quick Coat because it works on both the matte and glossy colour options of our Ivy and Ace Two electric bikes.

When winter is over, it’s a good idea to give your bike another clean with a hose or cloth to get those road salts off it. We strongly advise against using a pressure cleaner, as it blows the water so hard against the components that it also gets rid of the grease that’s needed to keep the bike working. And that's not what you want! Without protective grease on your chains and components, your risk of rust increases.

Check your bike chain before it starts squeaking

If you ride a Veloretti Electric bike with the Gates carbon belt drive, rejoice! Its clean and maintenance-free design means you can skip the lubrication process. Simply clean it with water or a soft cloth when needed, and it's good to go. If you do hear your belt making squeaky sounds, you can use some Gates silicone spray.

For classic city bikes with a chain, regular maintenance is essential for optimal performance. How often you clean and grease your bike chain depends on your cycling style and the kind of path you ride on, but we recommend doing it every season and definitely in the winter months to offer greater water protection.

Get started by using a dry cloth to wipe away dirt and grime. Turn the crank backwards and let the lower chain strand slide through the cloth, which will eventually show a cleaner chain and a dirtier rag. For stubborn dirt, use a cleaning spray like WD-40 or make it even easier for yourself with a chain cleaning system.

Next, apply lubricant using an oil spray, spreading it on the lower chain strand by turning the crank slowly. Remember to check your chain for wear and tear, stiff links, or any signs of damage as your bike ages. You may need to visit your local bike shop for a chain replacement.

Test your brakes

Especially with wet leaves or snow on the ground, one of the most important safety features on your bike is the brakes. To check your brakes are working OK, try to press the brake lever against your handlebar. Do they make a strange noise? If electric, are the brake discs and pads still thick enough? Or do they bend too easily?

To use your brakes optimally, the Shimano hydraulic brake fluid on Veloretti electric bikes should be changed every two years. Ask yourself these questions and depending on the answer, it might be time to book an appointment at a bike shop to have them repaired. Check Veloretti’s partner locations to see if there is a store near you. Your first service is free of charge.

Keep your bike cosy indoors during winter storms

Bikes are water-resistant, but they’ll last longer if protected from the elements. See a big winter storm approaching? Use a bike cover or store your bike indoors to prevent damage from heavy rain, ice, and cold temperatures. This will help extend the lifespan of your bike and reduce the need for repairs or replacements.

Stay visible and safe with upgraded lighting

During the long and light summer evenings, it’s easy to forget that you need lights on your bike. But winter means shorter daylight hours and reduced visibility. Stay safe on the roads (and avoid road fines!) by checking your bike’s lights are working as they should. 

Veloretti offers sleek and integrated lighting solutions that seamlessly blend with your bike's aesthetics while providing enhanced safety during those dark winter rides. For the Veloretti Ace and Ivy Two electric bikes, we have a new Osram precision light which you can turn on and off by holding the far-right integrated button. 

Meanwhile, Veloretti city bikes can be customised to include front and rear lights that suit your bike’s timeless style. Forgot to include them when you ordered your bike? No problem. You can still purchase Veloretti front and rear lights separately on our accessories page.