For students uninterested in braving the elements on their bike, Potter said the best option is to store their bikes under cover, in a residence hall bike room or on a bike rack with a roof covering, such as at the Wharton or Kellogg centers.

There are protected bicycle parking spaces available for rent at the Grand River and Trowbridge parking structures. The center also offers a tune-up and winter bike storage for $85.

“Lube, lube, lube,” MSU Bikes Service Center mechanic Levi Dysinger said. He said the biggest problem students encounter come springtime is rusted parts, which a regular application of lubricant can prevent. Lubricant stops road salt and moisture from sticking to a bike’s moving parts.

Having more traction in slippery winter conditions is critical, Potter said. On Saturday from 10 to noon, a free workshop at the MSU Bikes Service Center will be held to educate cyclists on winter riding as well as teach them how to install studs into their wheels for improved grip on the snow and ice.

Potter said cable housing for brakes and derailleurs tend to get moisture inside of them, then can lock up in freezing temperatures.

“Getting oil inside the cables helps a lot,” he said, because the oil will not freeze in low temperatures.