Chain care at home

Why chain care matters

A dirty chain wears itself and the rest of the drivetrain. Sand and old oil form an abrasive paste that stretches the chain and eats the teeth of the cassette and chainrings. A well-maintained chain shifts precisely, runs quietly and extends the life of the whole drivetrain.

Cleaning

1. Wipe the chain with a rag while turning the pedals backwards.
2. If the chain is very dirty, use a chain degreaser and a brush or a chain cleaning tool.
3. Clean the cassette, chainrings and derailleur pulleys too.
4. Dry the chain thoroughly before lubricating.

Lubrication

Put a drop of oil on each roller while turning the pedals backwards. Let the oil soak in for a moment and wipe the excess off the outside of the chain – oil left on the surface only collects dirt.

• Dry lube or wax – for dry weather. Collects less dirt but washes off in the rain.
• Wet lube – for rain, slush and winter. Water-resistant but collects more dirt.

Measuring chain wear

A chain "stretches" as its pins and rollers wear. You can measure the wear with a chain checker. A common rule of thumb is to replace the chain at around 0.5% wear (11- and 12-speed drivetrains) or around 0.75% (10-speed and older). A chain replaced in time saves the cassette and chainrings; a chain ridden too long often takes the other parts with it.

How often?

Lubricate the chain whenever it looks dry or starts to squeak, and after every wet ride and wash. In winter, salt wears the chain quickly, so look after it more often. When you want the whole drivetrain checked, book a service.