Hurricane Milton is locked into a crash course with the Florida coast. Your number one concern should be getting out of harm’s way and protecting your life and property. To protect your bike from a hurricane, secure it in a safe, sheltered location away from wind and flooding. Ideally, bring it indoors to a garage or secure storage space. If indoor storage is not an option, use a heavy-duty bike lock to fasten it to a sturdy object, and cover it with a waterproof tarp to shield it from rain and debris. Ensure that all accessories, such as lights and bags, are removed to prevent damage. Additionally, consider elevating your bike off the ground using a bike rack or platform, if possible, to safeguard against rising waters.
Saltwater will destroy your bike even if it is under water for only a short time. I get calls from bike owners after hurricanes that want me to help them fix the damage that happened to a flooded bike. Unfortunately, there is no way to fix that issue. The saltwater has already done damage to the rims, spokes, cables, brakes, and the frame of the bike. You might be able to get parts replaced but the real damage will show up as the frame swells and eventually fails from the corrosion. You may want to consider checking your home insurance policy to see if it covers bike replacement. You can also get a separate policy for your bike or trike.
If you are in the market for a used trike, please take extra caution after the storm so you don’t end up with a damaged bike that will become a problem in the future.