Everyone agrees that salt and steel (or aluminum, which corrodes even
faster) don't mix - and taking protective measures for winter riding is
important. We don't like sealing everything off. It's better to coat
the inside of your frame with a protectant - whether linseed oil (which
makes your bike smell arty), JP Weigle's Framesaver or a number of
internal rust protectants from the motorcycle and auto industries.
The problem is that water gets in even with seatposts with endcaps.
Many a mechanic working on a sealed frame has encountered a small deluge
when overhauling the bottom bracket of a sealed frame. Without a way to
get out, the brine inside can cause all kinds of damage - which is why
the wax coating is your first line of defense. We at Waterford take a
holier than thou approach and have now added a drain hole under the
bottom bracket to insure water gets out.
Wax is also key on the outside of the frame, which gets the most winter
abuse. Paint has a microscopic pores best sealed with wax. Because of
the inevitable flexing of frames, even powder coated finishes develop
microscopic cracks which require the protection of wax. Areas around
cable stops, rack mounts, clamps and water bottle bosses (which should
have greased screws inserted) - anywhere where snow and ice can build
up - are just as vulnerable as the open surfaces of the rest of the frame.
My hope is for bike shops to offer a winter day spa service - with a
wash, wax and lube for all season riders. Dare to dream!
Thanks,
Richard
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