Gravel bikes take a beating in winter. Wet, muddy rides leave your bike caked in grit and grime. A quick check after each ride keeps things running smoothly and saves you from bigger problems later. Five minutes is all it takes.

These checks are simple. You don't need tools, just a rag and five minutes.


Mud and road spray carry salt and grit that corrode paint and components. Wipe down the frame, fork, and stays with a damp cloth. Focus on areas where mud collects, like the bottom bracket, chainstays, and fork crown.

Why it matters: Corrosion starts fast on UK roads in winter. Wiping down after each ride prevents build up.

Your chain tells you everything about your drivetrain. Run a clean rag along the chain to remove surface dirt. If the rag comes away black, your chain needs a proper clean and lube.

Quick lube tip: If the chain is dry or squeaking, add a drop of lube to each link and wipe off the excess. Don't overlube. More is not better.

When to clean properly: When shifting feels rough, the chain sounds gritty, or you can see dirt caked between the links.

Check for cuts, embedded glass, or thorns. Run your fingers over the tread and sidewalls. Pull out anything stuck in there before it works its way through to the tube or sealant.

**Tubeless riders: ** Check sealant levels every few weeks. Top up if needed.

Why it matters: A small cut can become a flat on your next ride. Better to catch it now.

Squeeze the brake levers. They should feel firm and consistent. If they're spongy or pulling to the bar, your pads might be worn or you need a bleed.

Look at the brake pads. If they're thin or worn unevenly, replace them. Don't wait until they're metal on metal.

Disc brake tip: Spray and muck can contaminate pads. If your brakes are squealing, your pads might need cleaning or replacing.

Give your bike a quick visual check. Look for anything loose, bent, or out of place. Check bottle cage bolts, saddle clamps, and handlebar bolts. Mud and vibration can work bolts loose over time.

When to tighten: If something looks off or feels wobbly. Don't wait.

After a particularly muddy or wet ride, your bike needs more than a wipe down. Here's when to do a full wash:

• Mud in or on the drivetrain
• Shifting feels sluggish or rough
• The bike looks like it's been through a bog (because it has)

How to wash properly:

1. Rinse with low pressure water. High pressure forces water into bearings.
2. Use bike specific cleaner or diluted washing up liquid and a soft brush.
3. Scrub the frame, wheels, and drivetrain.
4. Rinse off the soap.
5. Dry with a clean cloth or blower
6. Lube the chain once it's dry.

Service Outpost tip: Use a chain cleaning tool for a deep clean. Run degreaser through it, rinse, dry, then lube.

Some jobs need a mechanic. If you're dealing with any of the following, book a service:

• Gears won't index properly despite adjustments
• Brakes feel spongy or inconsistent
• Headset or bottom bracket feels rough or creaky
• Wheels are out of true or spokes are loose

 Most riders should service their gravel bike every six months if they ride regularly through winter.

Post ride maintenance is not complicated. Wipe it down, check the chain, look at the tyres, and keep an eye on the brakes. Five minutes after each ride keeps your bike reliable and extends the life of your components.

The riders who keep showing up are the ones who look after their bikes. Make it a hab