Bike riding is a fantastic way to commute and keep fit but keeping your chain in good working condition will make your bike last much longer. A common issue people face is choosing the right oil lubricant for the job. Wet or dry lubricants is an age old debate so here we go for a deep dive into this topic. Choosing the right products for your bicycle will not only make the pedalling and movement much more efficient but add years of lifetime to your gear which can be expensive to replace time and time again. Bike mechanics around the world often have different suggestions for the right products but often you will find it has a lot to do with the certain climates they’re situated in as hot or cold can have dramatic effects on the effectiveness of the lubricants.
What Is The Difference Between Wet And Dry Bike Lubricants?
Wet lubricants are those that are applied to the bicycle chain while it is still wet. This type of lubricant usually contains a solvent which helps to dissolve old grease and dirt on the chain. It also helps to protect the chain from rust and corrosion.
Dry lubricants, on the other hand, are applied to a dry bicycle chain. This type of lubricant does not contain any solvents and is designed to protect the chain from friction and wear. Dry lubricants also help to prevent dirt and grime from building up on the chain.
So, which one should you use? The answer depends on your bicycle and how often you ride it.
If you live in an area with a lot of mud and dirt, then wet lubricants are probably a better option for you. Wet lubricants will help to keep your bicycle chain clean and free of rust and corrosion. However, if you live in an area with dry conditions, then dry lubricants are a better option. Dry lubricants will help to prevent dirt and grime from building up on your bicycle chain.
How To Clean Chain Before Adding Lubricant?
No matter which lubricant you choose, it is important to clean your bicycle chain before adding any lubricant. This will help to remove any old grease and dirt that may be on the chain.
- To clean your bicycle chain, you will need a rag, some degreaser, and a brush. First, use the brush to remove any large pieces of dirt and grime from the chain. Next, apply the degreaser to the rag and wipe down the entire length of the chain. Finally, use the brush to scrub any remaining dirt and grime from the chain.
- Once you have cleaned your bicycle chain, you are ready to add lubricant. Be sure to follow the instructions on the lubricant bottle to ensure that you are using the correct amount.
- Adding too much lubricant can actually attract more dirt and grime to your bicycle chain, so be sure to only add a small amount. Once you have added the lubricant, use a rag to wipe off any excess.
How Often Should You Lubricate Your Bicycle Chain?
It is important to lubricate your bicycle chain on a regular basis to keep it in good working condition. How often you need to lubricate your bicycle chain will depend on how often you ride your bicycle and the conditions that you ride in.
If you live in an area with a lot of mud and dirt, then you will need to lubricate your bicycle chain more often. However, if you live in an area with dry conditions, then you will not need to lubricate your bicycle chain as often. As a general rule of thumb, you should lubricate your bicycle chain at least once a month. However, if you ride your bicycle more often, then you may need to lubricate it more frequently.
WD-40 Is Not For Bicycles!
A common mistake so many bike enthusiasts make is using WD-40 for bike chains which is sold at most leading trade supply stores around the world. This may seem like a smart idea but the ingredients in WD-40 work to break down oil and grease which is a vital component for the bike mechanics to actually work and continue to spin without wear and tear.2 This product should not be used anywhere near a bicycle most experts would agree and there are many other brands to look at like Muc-Off or even Turtle car cleaning products which may be used to help add an extra shine and gloss to your bicycle cleaning.
Conclusion For Cleaning Your Bike Chain
Choosing the right lubricant for your bicycle chain is important. Wet or dry lubricants each have their own benefits and drawbacks. Be sure to consider the type of riding that you do and the conditions that you ride in when choosing which one to use.
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