Mid-Summer Gear Check to Keep Your Setup Running Strong All Season

Summer’s in full swing, and if you’ve been out on the water, trails, or backroads, your gear has been working hard. Whether you’re fishing off the coast, cruising lakes with your Bixpy Canada motor, or hauling equipment across rugged terrain, regular use with exposure to sun, salt, and moisture can take a toll.

Midway through the season is the perfect time for a check-in. A quick inspection now can prevent unexpected issues later and help keep your gear performing at its best through the rest of the summer (and well beyond).

Here’s what we recommend checking as part of your mid-season maintenance routine:

Batteries & Electrical Connections

Warm temperatures are great for battery performance until they’re not. Prolonged heat and humidity can cause batteries to degrade, connections to corrode, or seals to fail.

What to check:

• Make sure your battery is holding a full charge.

• Inspect the terminals for corrosion (white or greenish powder).

• Ensure all plugs and connectors are clean, tight, and moisture-free.

• If your equipment uses a waterproof seal, verify it’s still pliable and intact.

If your battery seems to be draining faster than usual, give it a full recharge and monitor performance. If issues continue, it may be time for a replacement.

Moving Parts

Salt, sand, and sun can put a lot of stress on anything with moving parts when it comes to paddles, motors, hinges, and pedal drive systems.

What to check:

• Look for stiffness, resistance, or unusual squeaking.

• Inspect for debris lodged in small areas.

• Lubricate hinges, pivots, and any mechanical joints to keep things running smoothly.

Even high-quality components can wear down or seize up without regular attention. A little maintenance now can prevent mid-trip malfunctions.

Metal Components

Summer adventures often mean exposure to salty air, splash zones, or brackish water. Unfortunately, these conditions speed up corrosion on metal hardware and motor housings.

What to check:

• Look for early signs of rust or corrosion on bolts, mounts, brackets, or frames.

• Pay close attention to your Bixpy motor housing and shaft.

• Clean any surface rust and apply a corrosion inhibitor if needed.

Even stainless steel can show signs of wear under extreme conditions so you need to keep it clean and protected.

Fabric, Covers & Straps

UV rays and water exposure can degrade soft gear fast. Straps may loosen, mildew can form, and fabric can lose its integrity.

What to check:

• Look for fraying, tearing, mold, or UV damage.

• Test straps and buckles for strength and elasticity.

• Clean fabric components using manufacturer-recommended products, then allow them to dry thoroughly.

Don’t leave soft gear wet or bunched up as this traps moisture and accelerates mildew and rot.

Propulsion Systems

If you’re using a Bixpy motor, it’s a good idea to give your propulsion system a detailed inspection at this stage in the season. Debris, impact damage, or internal wear can build up quickly with frequent use.

What to check:

• Inspect the intake for debris or visible wear.

• Check for cracks or damage in the motor housing.

• Listen for any unusual vibrations or noises during use.

Keep your intake clear and your motor rinsed after each saltwater session to extend its life.

Don’t Skip the Clean-Up

Even if everything looks fine, regular cleaning is still one of the easiest and most effective ways to prevent long-term damage.

Quick rinse routine:

• Rinse with fresh water after each use especially in salt or sandy conditions.

• Wipe down electrical components and dry thoroughly.

• Store in a shaded, cool place when not in use.

Stay Adventure-Ready

Taking 15–20 minutes to check your gear now can save you hours of troubleshooting or worse, a cut-short trip. A mid-summer check-in helps you catch small problems before they become big ones and extends the life of your gear.

Your equipment is an investment. Whether it's a Bixpy-powered kayak setup or the bag that holds it all together, a little upkeep goes a long way.

Still need a part, seal, or new accessory before summer’s over? Shop Bixpy Canada gear now!