Chains are the lifeline of a bicycle. The bike chain keeps the drive train turning and transmission churning. So why do we neglect them so?
A happy bike chain shifts better, sounds better and lives longer, plus, your mechanic will thank you for it. When we rolled into 2nd Avenue Sports in Durango, Colorado, chain master Jay Speed was ready to link it all together.
Things you’ll need: A shop rag or towel, degreaser, lubricant and a bike stand (while this is nice, a bike rack can work, or simply flip you bike upside down.)
1) Prep
With the chain in the middle of the cassette, spray the degreaser directly onto on the chain while rotating the cranks backward, careful not to contaminate the brake rotors. Some degreasers won’t affect the rotors, but better safe than sorry. Check with your shop.
2) Clean
With the chain wet, use the rag between the crank and the rear derailleur to clean the chain of gunk while rotating the crank backward. Change spots of the rag when it gets too dirty, and continue until there is no more grease coming off. Repeat this process as needed.
3) Dry
Allowing excess degreaser to evaporate will eliminate any chance that it interferes with the lubrication process. Five minutes should do it.
4) Lubricate
Use a drip lubricant while working on disc-brake bikes. Holding the applicator on the chain, drip the lube lightly onto the chain for a few rotations, continuing to run the cranks backward to allow for the lube to soak in the chain bushings.
5) Wipe
Remove excess lubricant by the same process used to clean the chain, and continue until the rag stops picking up lubrication.
6) Go pedal
Listen to the soothing sound of a well-cared-for chain and enjoy the ride.
This post originally appeared on adventurepro.us in January 2018.
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