Road Salt Dilemma
#12
I don't think riding your bike one or two times on salty roads will do any damage to your bike. However, I sense that you are quite worried about it so you probably should not do it. Just rent a trailer or wait until spring. I have ridden plenty of times on salty roads in Wisconsin and have never had any damage. I just wash my bike as soon as it gets warmer.
#14
#15
I live in an area where I can ride year round and salt is not used. I've had to travel for work in the winter to areas where they salt the roads. The salt works to clear the roads, but OMG I almost felt sorry for the rental car. I could actually see rust growing on the car while it was parked in the hotel parking lot. Do not ride your bike on salted roads.
Myself, I wouldn't worry too much about salt if it were an important ride. I would wash the bike well afterwards.
I also wouldn't be too excited about free installation of rims, maybe ask for a rain check. I know what some dealers charge for labor on tires/wheels is ridiculous and may make trailer rental look like a good deal.
If your getting new tires as well just have them mount the tires on the rims, then swap them yourself at home.
#18
I put new set of chrome rims on a truck one time and wrecked it a few days later. The salt sat on the wheels while it was in the shop and the wheels rusted like hell. They were supposed to be the best brand of chrome wheels. If you can't wash it with hot water immediately after wards I wouldn't do it.