All you need to know about chain lubricant for touring bikes
Chain lube is essential for a long-lasting, efficient, and fast-shifting drivetrain. Companies all over the world invest millions of dollars in research to find the best chain lubricant compositions that boost efficiency, draw less dirt, and last a long time. Let’s look at the many types of lubricants, how they work, how to apply them, and which chain lube products are the best.
Does Chain Lube Work?
Chain lubricant is applied externally, but only on the chain pins, rollers, and surfaces between the inner and outer chainplates is it required inside. The lubrication should be thin enough to reach the little chain components but thick enough to last a long time because it must permeate the chain. As a result, many heavier automotive lubricants are not the best choice for your motorcycle.
The most important thing to remember about lubrication is to have a sufficient amount on your chain at all times. Your drivetrain will last longer and be more efficient as a result of this. It’s worth noting that no other drivetrain components require chain lubricant (cassette, chainrings, derailleur, etc.). For a reason, it’s called chain lube.
Types
Wet and dry chain lubes are the two most common varieties, and both can be tailored to perform in a variety of situations. Wet lubrication is recommended for muddy or wet situations, whereas a dry lube is recommended for dry conditions. You’ll need to strike a balance between lube longevity and the amount of muck the lubrication generates in your drivetrain!
- Dry Chain Lube: Thin-bodied dry lubes are less likely to accumulate dust and grit, but they must be applied regularly. Given how to clean dry lubes off your chain, I’ve found that they’re useful for cleaning your chain too. Just apply a coat of lube liberally, spin the cranks backward a few times, and wipe off the excess. My ideal bicycle touring configuration is dry lube (plus a frequent wipe-off with an old sock).
- Wet Chain Lube: Wet lubes leave a layer on your chain that attracts grit and makes your drivetrain seem filthy. But, despite the shoddy manner in which I’m selling it, wet lube is fantastic since it can last up to 1500km (1000 mi) in the rain, mud, or whatever you want.I recommend using a degreaser between applications to ensure that you’ve removed all the grime that the wet lube has collected on your drivetrain.
- Wax-based Chain Lube: Wax chain lubes dry onto your chain quickly, attracting very little dirt and grit, and even shed excess filthy wax during use. This oil is also known for being the fastest, reducing friction by a little proportion over your drivetrain. The main disadvantages are that they must be used more frequently than other lubes, that they are ineffective in damp weather, and that you will need to de-grease the wax off your chain from time to time.
What kind of lube is best for you?
Wet lubes are ideal for long-distance travel, especially in inclement weather. They’re also helpful for folks who forget to oil their chains regularly. Dry lubes, on the other hand, are best for folks who desire a clean drive train and are willing to keep it clean frequently. We sell some of the best chain lubricant solutions in Delhi and across India at Kangaroo. Check out the product line today if you’re interested in purchasing these items.