what is the best way to lubricate a bike chain?

D

dan the man

New member
looking for your opinion.i have a container of chain oil for a chain saw that i dip a toothbrush in and lube my chain with.a couple of people suggested graphite spray.apparently it doesnt pick up so much dirt off the road. i need to increase the life in my chain as it is my main source of transportation.
 
Never oil a dirty chain, it will wash the grit into the chain. Clean the chain with one of the chain washers mentioned or take it off and put it in a plastic jug with degreaser and shake, rinse and repeat. Chain saw oil should be fine, just wipe of the excess oil so it won't collect as much dust. Degreaser on a rag will do a quick job of cleaning a chain. Put your chain oil in a small bottle with a thin spout you you can control it better, using a tooth brush will apply too much.

http://bicycletutor.com/part/chain/
 
The best way is to take the chain off and agitate it in a solvent. Gasoline works great. Do this twice, with fresh solvent the second time. Dry well, install, and lube with chain lube. Not with anything else.

To clean without taking the chain off, spray it well with a strong soap like Simple Green. Let it soak in for a few minutes, and spray off with garden hose. Repeat. Let it dry well and lube.

Don't try and extend the life of your chain too much. You'll end up ruining the cogs. 1/8 inch stretch max. A new chain will measure 1 inch, link to link. 1 and 1/8th, time for new chain. I've read it's best just to change it out after 2000 miles, but who counts?
 
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