However, today’s newer ahead stems will also be subject to rust and corrosion. Because today’s ahead stems basically “wrap” around the fork post, you do not have to remove the stem for cleaning.
If you have an older quill stem your brake cables may be routed in such a way that it will be difficult to remove your handlebar stem especially a traditional stem.
If this is the case, consult your local bike shop to ask them what they would do. Like your seat post, mark your spot with some tape before removing the stem. On a traditional quill stem, begin by loosening the stem bolt. This will require a large Hex wrench.
Once the bolt is loose, you should be able to lift the seat post up and out. Wipe the stem post with a rag. Then cover the post with grease below your tape mark. Slide the stem back into place. Grease will gather at the top of the head set.
With your finger, draw a bead of the left over grease around the stem covering the corner between the stem and headset. This again will help ward off future moisture until your next cleaning.
Just as you did with the exposed cables, put a little grease between your fingers and wipe on your head set just enough to put on a light film. No need to be liberal. Again, just a preventative means to help ward off moisture.
At this point, just get your rag and finish wiping down your bike, removing any smudges, dirt spots, etc. This won’t take but a couple of minutes. Initially, this basic clean-up may take awhile.
However, once it becomes a habit, it should only take about 45 minutes to an hour. A step that could save you $40 bucks next time your bike needs cleaning.
Perform your maintenance once a week on a Sunday after a long ride. Put on your favorite music, some old clothing and knock it out.
Last but not least, stand over your bicycle. There should be 1 to 2 inches between you and the top tube (bar) if using a road bike and 3 to 4 inches if a mountain bicycle.
The seat should be level front to back. The seat height should be adjusted to allow a slight bend at the knee when the leg is fully extended. The handlebar height should be at the same level with the seat.
