[email protected] wrote:
> Jasper Janssen writes:
>
> >>
> >> bicycling is the only machine of which I know on which lubrication
> >> theory seems to break down. I see no other chain driven machines
> >> that use wax, or for that matter machines that use wax as a
> >> lubricant.
>
> > Yeah, but most machines put a cover on their chains (if not an
> > entire factory hall). Bikes, being man-driven, are much more weight
> > sensitive. Plus the derailer kind of prohibits it.
>
> I think you are overlooking many chain driven vehicles and outdoor
> machinery that has exposed chains.
Sorry, Jobst, but a bike is pretty close to unique. First, the chain
doesn't run in the normal high speed, low tension conditions of
ordinary roller chains; instead, it's used in tension mode, at very low
pitch line velocity.
Second, it does live in a nastier environment than most roller chains,
by far. Standard industrial practice is to keep dirt, mud and water
away, not to sling that stuff at the chain off a front wheel.
Third, a bike is different from, say, a golf cart in that the operator
frequently comes in contact with the chain, frequently prefers
cleanliness, and frequently doesn't want a chain enclosure.
> >> You might be surprised how long a dash of oil on a chain will last
> >> in the environment in which the OP expects to ride (clean and dry).
> >> No wonder he can get along with wax.
Pure paraffin wax is no good in rain. But blend in about 5% oil, and
rain is no problem. My city is one of the rainiest in the country, by
one measure (specifically, the percentage of time that something wet is
falling out of the sky). I use only wax with a bit of oil, and have no
reason to change to something that turns black & messy in 100 miles.
YMMV, of course. But knocking it before trying it isn't very wise.
- Frank Krygowski