Chain cleaning and lubrication

Cycling / Popular

Keep the drivetrain clean, quiet and fast.

What coaches agree on

  • Rinse every trace of degreaser off and let the chain dry completely before adding fresh lube.
  • Apply lube one drop at a time to each roller all the way around the chain, then wipe off whatever's left on the outside.
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  • Match your lube to the conditions: a wet lube for wet, muddy riding and a dry lube for dry, dusty riding.
  • Clean the whole drivetrain while you're at it - cassette, chainrings, and jockey wheels - not just the chain itself.

Common mistakes

  • Letting a chain go too long between cleanings lets grit work into the old lube and turn it into a grinding paste that wears the drivetrain out faster.