is it ok to leave my bike outside in the winter?

Question

I have a mountain bike that I have stored on my balcony through most of the summer. I want to know is it ok to keep storing it outside in the winter also (i live in Chicago)

Thanks for any reply

Answer 1

I guess it would be ok as long as you cover it with a waterproof tarp that is tied down real good.No room in your apt.?My daughter used to store her corvette outside in the winter.(covered with a tarp)Have a good night.

Answer 2

Store Bike Outside

Answer 3

Storing any mechanical object outside summer or winter will age it faster. Other than that, if you keep it clean and lubricated and preferably covered it will not harm it to leave it outside year round. Sunlight is hard on un-used and un-protected tires so try to at least keep the sun from shining directly on it.

Bert

Answer 4

I will say that your biggest problem will be the air in the tires getting low due to the cold air. Another problem will be if it snows it may rust. It could also become very brittle if it is windy and constanly becoming hot then cold again. I'd try to at least cover it or being it inside.

Answer 5

It isn't terrible to leave it outside as long as it stays dry. It is possible for traces of water to freeze inside the frame causing the frame to expand and crack. Be sure to drain any traces of water (if you ride in the rain) before storing for the season or you will be sorry.

Answer 6

chicago gets pretty frigid its best to store it away the cold weather can probably damage something.

Answer 7

i wouldn't do that if i were you, especially if the bike cost a lot. i would put a plastic cover or put it in a shed

Answer 8

No!. For one thing, its bad on the rubber tires to go from one extreme to the other in temperature.

Answer 9

It won't be the best for it. But at a minimum take the chains on.

Answer 10

Best to keep it in a shed