On Mar 31, 10:01 pm,
[email protected] wrote:
> Well, after trying on of those "dry lubes" on my chains, I'm kicking
> myself for not using them all along! (Nice not having the drivetrain
> all black after one ride!) My one question is how often does it need
> to be applied? Come to think of it, should I clean the old layer off
> before reapplying? If so, with what?
I ride every day in all weather, only on the road for commuting. I do
a quick chain clean at three times:
1. when I hear the chirp (I don't hear it very often, because to me it
is really annoying);
2. after riding in the rain;
3. after a period of dry weather when it just looks dirty.
I use a *little* Simple Green on a cloth, and backpedal through the
cloth. Let the chain dry. Spray on a generous amount of lube while
backpedaling. Let it soak in awhile. I shift through all my gears a
couple times, on my bike stand. Wipe off all lube from the outside of
the chain, and from the chainring(s). The only lube that matters is
between the rollers and the pins, which you cannot touch.
I do a more through chain cleaning
http://www.parktool.com/products/detail.asp?cat=8&item=CM-5
every two months or so, depending on conditions. I get about 6 months
use from a chain (2000 miles).
I also use a chain wear indicator
http://www.parktool.com/products/detail.asp?cat=5&item=CC-3
, and replace my chain promptly at the .75% wear indicator. I just use
$15 chains. This regimen will extend the life of your cassette, make
shifting easier, and run quieter - J.