How to maintain your bike while using an indoor trainer
Even though you’re indoors, you still need to keep your bike in good shape

Taking care of your bike while using it on your indoor trainer is important for a few reasons.The biggest one is, if you’re using your outdoor bike, you want to make sure you don’t damage it so you’re good to go next spring. For that reason, some people will use an older bike on the trainer–but if you only have one, there’s no choice. But even if you are using an older bike, you still want to make it last as long as possible.
Since you use your trainer bike with constant stationary use and create buckets of sweat, it can cause wear and tear if you don’t pay attention. However, with a little regular upkeep, you can avoid problems and keep everything in great shape.
1. Keep ‘er clean
Sweat is tough on bikes—it’s salty and can lead to rust or corrosion. For that reason, you should always use a sweat guard or just drape a towel over your bike during your ride. Afterward, be sure to wipe everything down afterward. It’s pretty obvious where your sweat will it–the handlebars and top tube.
But check out exposed bolts–like the ones on your water bottle cage, too, as sweat tends to collect there. It’s not a bad idea either, if you are riding a fair bit, to give your bike a light wash with a damp cloth and mild soap to remove any build-up.
2. Drivetrain
Even though you’re inside, dust, dirt and grime can build up quickly on your chain and cassette. Clean the drivetrain regularly with a chain cleaner and reapply lubricant—preferably a dry or ceramic lube, as it doesn’t attract as much dust.
3. Give your bike a once-over every few weeks
Inspect your bike regularly for signs of wear. The rear axle or skewer, in particular, takes extra stress from being clamped into the trainer. Tighten bolts as needed, but be sure to use the correct torque to avoid overdoing it.
4. Check yer tires
If you’re using a wheel-on trainer, check your rear tire for signs of wear and consider switching to a trainer-specific tire. For direct-drive trainers, make sure to keep the cassette clean and ensure it’s properly aligned.
5. Handlebar tape
Even with a towel or sweatguard, your handlebar tape can still get soaked with sweat. While bacteria buildup is less of a concern, it’s still a good idea to clean it occasionally. Excess sweat can make the tape slippery over time, especially if it pools. After particularly sweaty sessions, wipe down your bars and consider a quick spritz of disinfectant spray—especially if you’re sick and dealing with snot as well as sweat.
It’s not a bad reason to change out your handlebar tape after every indoor training season too. Plus, new bar tape is a great (and inexpensive) way to spruce up your bike for the spring.