I got my bike ready for winter today! On the rear I installed a mountain bike tire, a wider fender, and a new rack! It's a hybrid bike, so it takes 700C tires, but I managed to find some 700C x 45 knobby tires a few years ago in an attempt to turn it into a mountain bike. It didn't make for a very good mountain bike, but one of the tires in the rear should be perfect for snow and slippery conditions. The tire was essentially free since I've had it for years, and it's just taking up space otherwise. The old tire that was on the rear is worn smooth, so it's no good for snow. I got a used tube for $1 from my local bike co-op to fit the larger tire. It's a slime tube, which I normally don't like, but it should be good for commuting to avoid flats. The knobby tire doesn't have a lot of flat protection built-in.
On the front I plan to install a studded tire when it gets cold again. Around here the bike paths tend to melt in the day and freeze overnight, making for slick conditions in the morning. They plow the paths, but they don't use any salt or sand. I got the tire for $50, which is not bad given that (good quality) normal tires cost at least $30. It's worth it not to crash on ice..
I had to modify a wide 29'er fender to fit over the rear tire. With a couple cuts by the seat stay it fits perfectly! I was expecting to have to do more extensive modifications to keep it from rubbing. Full fenders are a requirement for me since I usually ride in my work clothes.
I've had a rack sitting in the closet for a while, but I never got around to installing it. I got a good deal on an Axiom rack that's rated to hold 110lbs, so it's super strong. I previously had a free steel rack on this bike, but it eventually rusted and fell apart (it was already rusty and had some broken welds when I got it). This rack is aluminum, so it's about the same weight but stronger and more corrosion resistant. Now I need to find some bags to use with it. I mostly need it to carry groceries, so I'll probably pick up a grocery bag pannier or see if I can make my own.
I cleaned surprising amounts of black stuff out of the chain and gears and put on some fresh chain lube. I'm waiting on a new front brake since this one is sticking, and re-greasing it only helped for a few weeks. The original one lasted 15 years (with regular commuting for the last 6 years), so I think I got my money's worth. All the parts are original except the cassette, chain, crankset, pedals, grips, tires, cable/housing, and seat. I've only had to replace normal wear parts. I'll probably ride it until the frame rusts all the way through.
The bike will be a lot heavier and slower now, but that just makes it better training to ride it.
