I’m never too sure about how much lube to put on the old chain. I know too much of it can attract too much dirt and dust and grime which can wear things down. But if you want to cut down on friction for the big race, what is wrong with (after giving the drivetrain a good cleaning) putting a little extra lube on the chain rather that risking putting on too little? I figure it is ok to err on the side of too mush as long as you clean the chain before you ride it again. Let me know what you think.
Absolutely. All that is needed is enough to lubricate the moving parts. If you watch many pro mechanics lube a chain, they put a single drop on each individual link and thats it. They then wipe, wipe, wipe, wipe as much as possible, allowing the excess lube that wipes off on the rag to lubricate the chain chassis.
Try that once with a clean chain. You won’t believe how smoothly it behaves, almost as if there is no chain attached at all.
I agree. Chains shift better when they have all the excess goo wiped off. Plus, anytime i have to handle my chain i don’t have to get out the degreaser to clean my hands. Lube carefully, and wipe wipe wipe.
Hmm, that last line of advice might be misinterpreted…
Trust me, too much lube on your bike chain can definitely be a problem for the big race. It’s amazing how fast even a clean chain attracts dust and crap. Plus too much lube just means it gets all over other bike parts (derailleurs, cranks, frame) which then attracts more dust and crap.
Just make sure to use the right lube for the conditions (wet for wet conditions, dry for dry) and wipe off any excess.
Chris
Hey, thanks to all. That is good to know and I’ll keep that in mind. But trinewbie, wet and dry? I’ve always used wet no matter what the condition. Anything you recommend? Thanks.
I’m with the others. Too much lube = dirt magnet. I drop a drop on each link, spin the cranks, let it sit for a while. Then take a rag/towel and wipe off all the excess.
Use wet for wet condition and dry for dry conditions. Dry lube will come off in wet conditions, but wet lube attracts more dirt than dry.