Snow Is On:::What Now...

Snow is here. That means not unlike our surfing komrads, cyclists will have to make time to ride when the going is good. As long as the temperature stays above 40f, it doesn't take much to ride as long as roads are clear. I think I will be assembling my '92 Specialized Stumpjumper bike for riding the fat stumpies over the ice and slush.
This is a good time of year to Frame Saver treat your coveted steel frame to prevent rot. I shiver to think what the salt water on the roads is going to do to my '79 Trek frame from the West Coast. Some say you can prevent internal rusting by spraying WD40 in there instead of Frame Saver. I'd just fork over the pork and buy the real stuff. And don't think you can get away with leaving the fork and bottom bracket in the frame when treating. You really have to get down to the frame to manouver the frame around and get all surfaces of the frame tubes coated.
You'll also want to grease your seat post and stem quill (if you have a quill stem) so they won't seize up in all this salty winter hell that is New England winter. A seized seatpost can cost you $30 labor plus the cost of replacing the post that needed to be destroyed to get it out of your frame.
Those of you riding or not riding your overly geared bicycle should consider lubing the pivots on your derailleurs, front derailleur especially. In the spring, it's the front derailleur that is most commonly unresponsive due to corrosion. Replacement of even a cheap front derailleur will set you back at least $35 parts and labor.
Today the wind is driving rain mixed with snow sideways, pushing into the nooks and crannies of our psyche. Bust out the bourbon, set up the rollers, watch that 1998 Tour de France video, and watch the forecast for the next day to ride. There should be a bar somewhere with a fire place, strong hot toddies, and indoor bike parking. But sadly, I don't think there is such a place.