IMHO there are two ways to look at this one: (a) Clean it thoroughly and very regularly, or (b) coat it in something protective and don't clean it at all.

The downside of (a) is that it's a lot of work and in the winter months and it's almost impossible to get the bike dry after washing; also, unless you're going to wash/clean it religiously after every ride it will corrode between washes.

The issue with (b) is that your bike will look a bit sh!t and filthy all the time, but you will be able to rest easy in the knowledge that it's not corroding underneath. Come the better weather you can clean off all the protective layer and the crud with it and enjoy a shiny, corrosion-free bike!

I go with (b) in the winter and I'm more of an (a) in the summer!

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