Keeping your Bike Chain Clean
STEP-BY-STEP PLAN FOR CLEANING THE BICYCLE CHAIN
Cleaning your bicycle chain: it's an essential part of your bike maintenance. The better you clean the bike chain, the longer its lifespan and the smoother shifting and cycling you will experience. Cleaning a bicycle chain: how do you do that? Here you will find a handy step-by-step guide to help you get the most out of your chain.
Periodic cleaning of the chain is essential: your chain must be greasy, but it will also attract dirt and grease. This causes the chain to no longer run smoothly, and eventually, you will have trouble shifting. The less often you clean the chain, the shorter the service life will be. The more often you clean the chain, the better. How frequently you have to clean the chain depends on how much you use your bike. The type of chain case also plays a role: an open chain guard requires regular maintenance because the chain is much more exposed to dirt and grease.
THIS IS WHAT YOU NEED TO CLEAN THE BICYCLE CHAIN
Cleaning your bicycle chain: it takes some time and energy, but you get a lot in return - a longer chain lifespan and more cycling comfort. A few things are required to clean the chain properly. You'll need the following:
- Cloth
- Detergent
- Degreaser
- Chain brush
- Chain oil
STEP 1: REMOVE DIRT ON THE OUTSIDE
Start by removing any dirt from the chain. For this, you can use a special detergent and a cloth. Place the bike upside down and turn the pedals with one hand. Apply some detergent to the cloth and rub it along the chain. You can also use a chain brush to remove any dirt between the links. It is not recommended to use a high-pressure sprayer for cleaning the chain, as it can cause damage to the links.
STEP 2: DEGREASE THE CHAIN
For the second step, grab the degreaser. This allows you to clean the chain thoroughly. Don't be afraid to use a little more degreaser: this way, you can be sure that you clean the chain well. After degreasing the chain, you can clean and dry it with a dry cloth. Different types of degreasers are available: you can order high-quality ones online. Among other things, cleaning your bicycle chain with WD40 is one of your options.
STEP 3: CLEAN PARTS
The next step is to maintain the parts around the chain. Think of the derailleur and the chainrings. First, clean the bicycle chain; then, you can clean the gears, front blades and derailleurs. You can also do this with the degreaser. Pedal your bike backwards in between, so you can get to everything. Bicycle chain cleaning detergent? Make up a mixture of dishwashing liquid and hot water to remove grease.
Don't forget the chainrings: you clean them by moving a dry cloth between the blades, and you can do the same with the cassette. This way, you ensure that all parts are cleaned. Finish with the rims and brake pads. Remove mud, sand, dirt, oil and grease to keep all parts in top condition.
STEP 4: CHECK THE PARTS
After you have cleaned the bicycle chain and the surrounding parts, check all parts carefully. After all, everything is clean now, so you will be able to see everything much better, including any damage or anything else that isn't quite right. Inspect the outer and inner tubes, make sure that the nuts are securely fastened and check if the brake pads still work properly.
STEP 5: DRY THE BIKE
Water is not good for your bike as it can cause rusting. It is especially important to prevent water from getting inside any cracks. Therefore, always take care when using water during cleaning and make sure that you dry the bike really well afterwards. Do not leave out any of the parts: the front fork and the headset must also be dry!
STEP 6: LUBRICATE THE BICYCLE CHAIN
Done with cleaning the bicycle chain? Then it's time for the last step: lubricating the chain. It can only be done if the chain is completely dry. You can use a spray can, but a cloth and lubricating oil work equally well. Ensure the oil is not too thin: it could leak out and stop the brakes from functioning properly. It does not give the desired result and can even be dangerous. Always make sure you have high-quality lubricating oil for your chain.
KEEP YOUR CHAIN IN TOP CONDITION
Cleaning the bicycle chain brings numerous advantages: thanks to these handy 6 steps, you are able to carry out your maintenance faster, better and with more skill. In the beginning, it will take a bit more time, but after a few times, it will be a piece of cake. Make it a routine and clean your bike (and chain) after every ride. Especially after cycling in a muddy and wet environment, it is advisable to do this immediately upon returning home. This way, you keep your chain in top quality and benefit from it for much longer!