Chain care

03-Feb-2025 Anorak stuff

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. When enough of this abrasive material gets onto the chain it will add to the friction of your drivetrain. Riding for any length of time like this will wear the chain down. This leads to premature stretch, noise and a distinctly unpleasant feel. I find this much more noticable when riding fixed gear than road bikes.

To keep the chain in top condition, clean it before lubricating. I often notice a noisy ride right after it has been raining. I'm guessing the rain and spray has washed off the oil and deposited extra grime. Once you are home, remove the chain and get it cleaned!

Mix up the following ingredients and drop the chain in. I use a can with a screw on lid so I can 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.
Baking soda	Shake in a bit until it fizzes up. This releases the dirt from within the chain.
30% water	Add enough so all the chain is submerged.

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!