Bicycles/Maintenance and Repair/Chains/Chain clean and lube

STEP 1: Chain Cleaning

A chain cleaning device

Before you lubricate a chain, any dirt or old lube has to be wiped off. This can be done in different ways: for example, you may use a chain cleaner such as the one we see in the picture above. This device needs to be filled to a certain extent with chain degreaser.

STEP 2: Chain Lubing

Lubing the chain

Drip fresh lube onto each link. Then turn the cranks backwards a few turns and wipe off any excess chain lube that has come to the surface (this old/excess lube will be black.)

Dry or wet lube?

Commonly dry and wet chain lubrication are utilized. A dry lube hardens on the chain and is excellent for dusty rides, but does not protect from moisture and is typically used in hot summer climates. A wet lube is used whenever there is a chance of water getting on the chain. The downside of a wet lube is that dirt readily clings to it causing wear of the bike's transmission components.