It's all over the web: always ride with a clean chain. Why so important and what's the best way to keep the chain clean?
As the chain is so low to the ground it will be right next to grime, salt and sand. This muck sticks to the oil on the chain and consquently add to the friction of your drivetrain. This friction will wear a bike chain quickly. This leads to premature stretch, noise and a distinctly unpleasant feel. I find this much more noticble when riding fixed gear than road bikes.
To keep the chain in top condition, clean it regularly. I often notice a noisy ride right after it has been raining. I'm guessing the rain has washed off any remaining oil and the road spray has left a sprinkling of grime. Don't be tempted to oil a dirty chain - the oil will carry the dirt in deeper. Get home and remove the chain. If you don't have a quick release link, get one. The KMC ones are best I find.
Mix up the following ingredients and drop the chain in. I use a can with a screw on lid and slosh the fluid around.
| 40% methylated spirits | General solvent. If you've drunk all the meths, hand sanitiser, petrol, vodka, lighter fluid etc can be substituted. |
| 20% washing up liquid | Detergent to break down the oil |
| 10% lemon juice | Helps with degreasing |
| 30% water | Add enough so all the chain is submerged |
| Baking soda | Shake in a bit until it fizzes up. This releases the dirt from within the chain |
I've used a solution along these lines for around 10 years and find it most effective. I tend to leave the chain in a couple of hours and swirl it around a bit. Rinse it off and check it for any gritty residue. Potientially a second dip is necessary (especially if the solution is a couple of years old.) It keeps going for years. Lube the chain up and you're ready to go!