Keep your chain clean and smooth

A clean chain runs smoothly. This routine uses a chain scrubber, with a brush as the alternative.

Before you start

• Check the chain for wear first. If it is worn beyond its service life, replace it instead of cleaning it.
• Use a bicycle specific degreaser, formulated to cut the grime on used chains.
• Wear gloves and protect the floor with cardboard indoors.

Clean

• Shift to the smallest rear cog and smallest front chainring.
• Attach the scrubber to the lower section of chain, fill it with solvent to the fill line, then turn the cranks backward for at least 30 revolutions.
• Rinse with soapy water and repeat until the chain is thoroughly rinsed.
• Without a scrubber, dip a stiff brush into degreaser and scrub by hand.
• Wipe the chainrings, rear cogs and derailleur pulleys while you are there.

Dry and lube

• Wipe with a clean dry rag, then air dry.
• Apply a small drop of chain lube to each rivet.
• Wipe off the excess lube with a clean rag so dirt will not stick to it.

Dry or wet lube?

Follow the lube maker's instructions for conditions and reapplication. Pedalova stocks bike specific dry and wet lubes from WD-40 Specialist, each described on its product page.