May Day is just around the corner, bringing with it bike trips – both recreational and adventurous. To enjoy efficient and trouble-free rides, it’s essential to take care of certain bike components. One of the most important parts is the chain – without it, riding is impossible. Regular cleaning and maintenance of your bike are fundamental. Which chain lubricant should you choose and how should you use it?
Why take care of your bike before May Day?
Most cyclists know that the arrival of spring means thorough equipment checks. Moisture, sand, dust, and road salt residues negatively affect the mechanical parts of the bike. Neglecting chain and drivetrain maintenance can lead to accelerated wear and even damage to the bike.
Bike chain – lubricant as the best way to maintain your bike
Regular lubrication of the bike’s metal parts not only ensures the equipment’s longevity but also allows for long rides on a single maintenance cycle. Lubricating the bike chain simply means covering it with lubricant. Note: Avoid using any generic lubricant from a supermarket or non-specialized store. The best option is a specialized lubricant or oil tailored to your bike’s specifications and the type and length of potential routes.
Benefits of lubricating the bike chain
A properly lubricated bike chain reduces friction, ensures quiet operation, and decreases the risk of breakdowns. In contrast, a neglected chain can skip, squeak, or even break during a ride – posing a safety risk to cyclists. Lubricating bike parts also saves money – a well-maintained drivetrain lasts longer and performs better.
What to lubricate a bike chain with? Types of bike lubricants
Bike lubricants are chemical agents dedicated to bicycles, ensuring smooth, efficient, and “clean” drivetrain operation. They can be categorized as follows:
- Wet Lubricants – Synthetic (Teflon), resistant to washing out.
- Dry Lubricants – Synthetic, low viscosity, and antistatic properties.
- Ceramic Lubricants – Wax or oil with ceramic particles.
- Wax Lubricants – Water and paraffin-based.
Let’s explore the characteristics of each type.
Wet lubricants – ideal for wet conditions
Wet lubricants have excellent adhesive properties and long-lasting effects. They contain PTFE lubricants, ensuring high performance and durability in harsh weather conditions, such as rain or mud. Wet lubricants have a thick consistency and high viscosity, making them difficult to wash out by moisture. They create a relatively thick and durable protective layer that adheres well to the bike’s metal parts, effectively protecting against corrosion.
The downside? Wet lubricants can be less efficient during dry conditions – their high viscosity causes slightly higher rolling resistance. In dry conditions, a bike chain covered with sticky, brownish substance gets dirty quickly and easily attracts dust, sand, mud, and other contaminants.
Applications: Mountain bikes (MTB), trekking bikes, and year-round bikes.
Dry lubricants – opponent of dry road conditions
Dry lubricants are designed for riding on hot days, on dry asphalt roads, and dusty county roads. They have a thinner consistency and lower viscosity than wet lubricants. Shortly after application, dry lubricant quickly dries, forming a thin, dry protective layer. Unlike wet lubricants, this special coating is enriched with PTFE and is carried by various solvents. It’s important for dry lubricants to reach every nook and cranny of the bike.
Dry lubricants ensure quiet bike operation, ease of cleaning (less dirt and dust), and do not attract any contaminants. However, they react poorly to moisture and intensive use – they wear off and are washed away by rainwater. They are not as durable as wet counterparts. Dry lubricants should be applied to bikes after each ride in wet conditions or long distances.
Applications: City bikes, road bikes, and gravel bikes.
Universal lubricants – a perfect solution for the weekend cyclist
Universal lubricants (“all-weather”) are a combination of dry and wet lubricants. They combine the benefits of both substances. By choosing universal lubricants, you can expect decent bike protection in varied, changing conditions – both slightly dry and moderately wet.
Universal lubricants have average viscosity and durability, as well as a good composition. They are always “something in between.” They do not match specialized lubricants in terms of longevity or properties. Compared to wet lubricants, they fall short in performance during rain and mud. Similarly, with dry lubricants – they do not perform well in hot months when there is drought and do not provide such low friction in sunny moments under the scorching sun.
Applications: A good choice for city, touring, or weekend cyclists who ride recreationally, occasionally, in various weather conditions. When they do not want to invest in two specialized lubricants that need to be adjusted to the weather or seasons, nor do they need to achieve maximum performance – they simply want reliable and trouble-free drivetrain operation.
Ceramic lubricants – for athletes and extreme riders
Ceramic lubricants are high-end products, more chemically advanced than dry and wet counterparts. They can be described as typically racing.
These bike maintenance agents contain ceramic particles that fill micro-irregularities on the metal surface, resulting in a very smooth protective layer with an exceptionally low friction coefficient – an important property that translates to high drivetrain efficiency, chain durability, and quiet, smooth operation of mechanisms.
Ceramic lubricants are distinguished by their efficiency, durability, and resistance to moisture, high pressure, and large loads. They ensure maximum pedaling efficiency. They protect the bike chain from corrosion. They work effectively even in extreme temperatures. They optimize the smooth operation of components and extend their lifespan (they can withstand extreme conditions longer than traditional lubricants).
However, remember that the lifespan of bike chains coated with ceramic lubricant is not unlimited; it reaches a certain maximum limit – usually up to 200 km of riding.
Like any product, ceramic lubricants also have their drawbacks – the most common complaint is about the price.
Applications: Bikes intended for road cyclists and triathletes, extreme sports athletes of long MTB marathons.
Teflon lubricants
Teflon lubricant is primarily dedicated to riding in dry conditions.
Its excellent properties are due to the presence of PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene; synthetic fluoropolymer) in its structure. The greatest advantage of Teflon lubricant is its exceptionally low friction coefficient, which increases the resistance of bike chains and other mechanical components to intensive wear.
Teflon lubricant forms a thin yet very durable protective layer that works effectively even at extreme temperatures (from -40°C to +250°C), which – unlike traditional lubricants – does not leave a greasy surface. The product is resistant to moisture and chemicals. It does not attract dust, sand, or mud.
Many cyclists apply Teflon lubricants incorrectly. The basic mistake is the timing of application. You should not lubricate the bike right before riding, but the day before. The protective layer does not form within a few minutes or hours. You need to wait at least 24 hours – it’s worth it because then you ensure maximum bike performance.
The more applications, the better. It is said that “men mature like wine, the older, the better” – the same can be said about Teflon lubricant. Each application of the product makes the bike chain more durable and better protected against corrosion.
Silicone lubricants
Silicone lubricants are based on silicone oils.
They are characterized by thermal stability, chemical neutrality, water resistance, and compatibility with various materials (e.g., rubber, plastic, metal) – they do not cause degradation of these materials, making them ideal for protecting delicate surfaces. They are also perfect for riding in dry conditions (silicone particles have similar properties to Teflon).
They are also characterized by excellent resistance to extreme temperatures (usually from -50°C to +250°C).
Silicone lubricants do not dry out or harden over time. They form a thin, transparent protective layer that protects the bike surface from dirt and moisture.
Applications: In addition to bike chains, they can be used to lubricate valves, locks, guides, seals, as well as moving parts in electrical appliances, household appliances, sanitary installations, or automotive.
Wax lubricants
Wax lubricants are gradually gaining popularity – thanks to their universal, versatile properties. They contain refined wax particles emulsified in a carrier fluid (liquid). They are suitable for riding in both dry and rainy conditions. Wax lubricant can easily reach every link of the bike chain. The action is simple: the liquid (carrier fluid) evaporates, leaving only the wax.
It is the wax – the component of wax lubricants – that forms a durable, strong protective layer on the bike chain while minimizing the risk of dirt sticking to the metal surface.
Currently, AG TermoPasty does not offer wax lubricants.
Which bike lubricant to choose? Check out AG TermoPasty proposals!
Grease TF
A versatile, technologically advanced, universal agent for the maintenance of metal components.
Composition: It is based on silicone modified with fluoropolymer (PTFE – polytetrafluoroethylene).
Description: Grease TF is an ideal agent for maintaining bike chains, right after cleaning, and during exposure to heavy loads and moisture. It penetrates hard-to-reach places, protects against corrosion, and displaces moisture. It works similarly to classic rust removers and degreasers. Grease TF forms a thin, semi-permanent protective layer on metal surfaces with a very low coefficient of dynamic and static friction.
Properties: Excellent thermal resistance (operating range from -40°C to +250°C), chemical resistance (oils, solvents, bases, acids), and dielectric properties. It is also electro-insulating, which increases safety in contact with electrical installations.
Applications: Bike chains and other mechanical components of bikes, as well as gears, precision mechanisms (e.g., guides, locks, hinges). It is also used for devices operated in the food and pharmaceutical industries.
Grease TF Dry
A multi-purpose lubricating agent with a versatile formula. It is an ideal way to protect and maintain metal surfaces and various bike mechanisms.
Composition: Grease TF Dry is based on a unique formula of pure Teflon (PTFE).
Description: Grease TF Dry perfectly lubricates bike chains intended for road and city riding. It does not attract dust or dirt. It has a 360° valve for easy application. This lubricating agent can be used both in industry and domestic conditions.
Properties: Grease TF Dry offers exceptional anti-adhesive properties. It has an extremely low coefficient of friction. It effectively protects against contaminants, moisture, oils, and chemicals. It leaves a dry and clean coating on metal surfaces.
Applications: Bike chains intended for use in summer months, in dry conditions, as well as in industry, e.g., for lubricating bearings, gears, gear wheels, rails, and sliding guides.
Penetrating and lubricating preparation
A multifunctional, versatile maintenance agent for metal components.
Composition: Penetrating and lubricating preparation, which is based on active ingredients (including molybdenum disulfide), ensures effectiveness in difficult conditions. It can be found in aerosol form (360° valve for easy application).
Description: A tool that effectively protects and lubricates metal surfaces, and facilitates the disassembly of seized connections. Quick action, safe use (for most surfaces, including metals, rubber, aluminum, and painted surfaces), protection against corrosion and moisture – these are its most important features.
Properties: Penetrating and lubricating preparation also exhibits strong hydrophobic properties – it displaces moisture from metal surfaces. It is therefore an excellent preventive agent in very humid environments.
Applications: Servicing bike chains, hinges, screws, threads, locks, and precision mechanisms. It can also be used to maintain items and tools such as seized screws and connections, hinges, battery clamps, car locks, control cables in bikes and motorcycles, lawnmowers, and other garden equipment. It is also suitable for maintaining firearms.
Grease for dampers
A specialized, innovative product used for bike and motorcycle shock absorbers, without the risk of damage.
Composition: The transparent product has a clear formula.
Description: Grease for dampers is designed to extend the life and improve the performance of shock absorbers in bikes, motorcycles, and other vehicles with telescopic suspension.
Properties: The unique formula of Grease for dampers combines protection, maintenance, and friction reduction, ensuring smoother and more comfortable rides in all weather conditions. It is characterized by anti-corrosion properties, friction reduction, and water displacement, as well as safe use (for metals, rubber, and plastics). Easy application thanks to the handy aerosol with a 360° valve.
Applications: Bike and motorcycle shock absorbers, vehicles with spring suspension, gas struts in trunk lids.
How to properly lubricate a bike chain? Step-by-step guide
Maintaining a bike chain involves more than just covering the metal surface with a chosen lubricant. Before starting, you need to thoroughly clean the entire bike. There are two basic methods for cleaning a bike chain. Remember: the bike chain should be lubricated inside, not outside — that’s our goal. We’ll show you how to maintain a bike chain and how to go about it.
Step 1: Cleaning the bike chain
Start the bike maintenance by initially cleaning the chain and gears. Hold the dirty bike chain in your hands, squeezing a cloth, and pedal backward – this will remove all loose dirt fragments from the chain. Next, try to clean the front and rear gears – a cloth won’t help here, only a brush will. Place the brush on the gear wheels and pedal. Simultaneously shift the chain to different gears until everything is clean.
Once you remove the loose dirt, it’s time for the more challenging task of removing old lubricant and oil. Now you need a metal cleaner. Apply the cleaner thoroughly to the bike’s metal parts (including gears and chain rollers) and pedal backward with your other hand.
If there was a lot of dirt, use brushes to clean the entire chain from top to bottom, then pedal several times – this will help the degreaser work. To help the cleaner penetrate all parts of the chain, leave the bike for a few minutes. If necessary, repeat the process several times until the old thick oil dissolves. Remember to rinse everything afterward to remove the cleaner – if you don’t, the new lubricant applied later won’t adhere well to the bike’s surface. Everything must flow off the chain.
The next step is to dry the bike – the best way to do this is with a cloth.
Step 2: Choosing the right lubricant
Step 3: Applying the lubricant – how much and how?
Properly lubricating a bike chain involves not only choosing the right lubricant but also the correct, tailored application technique. There are two ways to lubricate using any of the discussed products.
- Longer method: Apply two drops of lubricant – one drop of oil on the outer side and another on the inner side of each chain link. This requires a lot of patience, and few people opt for it. However, if everything is well covered, the results will be spectacular.
- Less labor-intensive and quick method: Position the tip of the lubricant container along the outer edge of the bike chain and simultaneously pedal backward – this will rotate the equipment several times. Remember to repeat this process several times – but this time from the inner side. Try to apply the lubricant evenly to all links. Each application of lubricant requires waiting a few minutes (we want it to penetrate the chain links well). Tilt the bike towards the derailleur side – this prevents excess lubricant from dripping onto the wheels.
Warning: Lubricating the outer side of the chain is a debated issue – there are two schools of thought, one advocating for only the inner side, while the other says the opposite. Much depends on the chosen product. If you’re unsure what to do with your selected lubricant, read the product leaflet or our technical data sheets and safety data sheets. Alternatively, contact the manufacturer.
At AG TermoPasty, we do everything to help our customers. Contact us, and we’ll advise you on what to do in a difficult situation!
Step 4: Removing excess lubricant from the entire chain
To remove excess lubricant from the outside, use a clean cloth to gently wipe the bike chain – as clean as possible. How to do it? Proceed similarly to cleaning the bike – grab the chain with a cloth and pedal several times.
Remember: don’t wipe everything off. Leave a thin layer of lubricant inside the links. Excess lubricant attracts dirt and dust, but such a small layer won’t hurt.
Note: Some bike chain lubricants should not be wiped off! Examples include wax lubricants. When unsure how to proceed, read the complete information from the manufacturer. If necessary, we are here to help and advise!
Summary – good lubricant equals safety and riding comfort
Regular maintenance of the bike chain is crucial for riding efficiency, aesthetics, and safety. Remember: systematic and proper lubrication equals longer bike lifespan.
Additionally, choose the right lubricant for your bike chain. A well-chosen product improves pedaling efficiency and ensures quiet drivetrain operation. If you’re wondering which lubricant would be best for your equipment and where to purchase it, we invite you to check out our offer! We are a leader among lubricant manufacturers in the Polish technical chemistry market. Contact us to find out if we have the right product for you. Regardless of your decision, we are always here to offer advice. Meanwhile… May Day is just around the corner – don’t forget to maintain your bike chain! We wish you a pleasant and safe celebration!