That time of year is upon us, the temperature is dropping and the snow is falling, fortunately that won’t stop us from accessing our bike hangar. Here is our quick guide to keep you cycling this winter:

Frozen Bike Hangar Lock

During the winter, when the temperature drops below zero, it is possible for water, dew or condensation to enter the lock mechanism and freeze. Locks and icy weather are not an ideal combination, as all locks, including infralocks (as used within our FalcoPod bike hangars), use complex mechanisms with springs, pins and bars. During our planned maintenance visits, we do complete certain preventative tasks ready for winter, but frozen locks can still occur.

If your bike hangar lock is likely to be frozen, it is important to plan ahead and simply follow the following steps:

1. Trickle warm water over the lock to melt the ice away, there is no need for boiling water. This method alone should work after a few seconds, if not continue onto the second step.

2. Spray a little water displacement lubricant onto the lock, such as WD-40. This will coat the metal components to deter moisture from gathering or pooling. This can also help to prevent a further build-up of ice over the next few days. Please allow a few seconds for the solution to set in.

3. Alternatively, a common vehicle de-icer can be used to help shift any stubborn ice.

4. Lift the bike hangar lid carefully to retrieve your bike.

It is important to only follow the steps listed here. DO NOT use excessive heat or an open flame as this can become dangerous and permanently damage the lock.

Bike Hangar Lid Operation

The operation of the bike hangar lid can fluctuate in freezing temperatures. The characteristics of the built-in gas struts change due to the cold weather, therefore it is essential to take extra care when opening the lid. Lift the lid slowly and allow it to open at its own pace to give the gas struts additional time to fully perform its operation.

Clear any snow away from the door so there is less weight to lift and gently lift the lid up and down a couple of times to warm the gas struts.

If after following these steps you are still unable to access your FalcoPod bike hangar, please contact our helpful bike hangar rental team on rentals@falco.co.uk.