When the flakes fly and the trails freeze over, it's time to give you and your kids bike some care before it goes in to hibernation.

Proper cleaning is essential and made easier with bike brush kits and biodegradable solvents. A hose with a low pressure setting can be effective for getting the grime off your bike. Drivetrain specific cleaners will help remove unwanted grime without breaking down grease to give your parts a longer lifespan.

If you ride a full suspension, the winter months are a great time to service your fork and shock. Keeping up with suspension service intervals will ensure the bike will be ready to go the distance when the trails thaw. Suspension seals need to be serviced periodically, even if the bike hasn't been ridden.

The service department typically has quicker turnarounds and winter suspension service specials to offer customers so they can be ready to ride when the season picks up. Staying ahead of the masses hoping to get their bikes fixed in the spring, will get you out riding when the dirt is prime.

If you're a year round rider, winter upkeep is even more important. Swapping out the summer tires for mud spikes, dropping the tire pressure and mounting up fenders will keep you upright and enjoying the ride.