Keep your chain clean and lubed (a beginner’s guide)

The chain is the hardest-working part of your bicycle. Every pedal stroke passes through it. Left dry and dirty, it squeaks, wears out quickly and makes riding harder. With five minutes of care, it will last much longer and run quietly.

How often should you lube a chain?

There is no single answer, because it depends on how much you ride, the weather and the type of lubricant. As a starting point, cycling guides suggest lubricating roughly every 200 km, more often in wet or muddy conditions, and a little less often in mild, dry ones. Sound is a more reliable guide than looks: if your chain starts to grind, creak or squeak, it is asking for attention.

Wet lube or dry lube?

• Wet lube is thicker and sticks to the chain better. It suits wet, muddy or rainy conditions, such as the monsoon, because it resists being washed off. It can attract more dirt, so wipe the chain regularly.
• Dry lube is lighter and attracts less dust. It suits dry, dusty weather, but needs to be applied more often.
• If you are a beginner, an all-purpose bicycle lubricant is a sensible choice. Never use cooking oil, and do not use a heavy spray that drips everywhere.

What you need

• A clean cloth or rag.
• An old toothbrush.
• Soap and warm water, or a chain cleaner.
• Bicycle chain lubricant.

Step by step

1. Prop the bicycle up, or lean it against a wall, so the back wheel can turn freely.
2. Wipe the chain with a dry rag while turning the pedals backwards. Wipe off as much old dirt and oil as you can.
3. If it is very dirty, scrub it with a toothbrush and soapy water, or a chain cleaner. Rinse, then dry thoroughly. Do not use strong water jets on the bearings.
4. Apply lubricant sparingly, one drop on each link, while slowly turning the pedals backwards for a full rotation.
5. Let it sit for a few minutes so the lubricant gets into the inside of the links, where it is needed.
6. Wipe off all the excess with a clean, dry rag. The outside of the chain should be almost dry. The lube that matters is inside the links.

Between rides

• A quick wipe of the chain with a dry rag after dusty or wet rides makes a big difference.
• Store your bicycle somewhere dry. Rust forms quickly in humid weather.
• If the chain stretches or the gears skip, a mechanic can check wear. A worn chain is much cheaper to replace than the rest of the drivetrain.

Take it further

Once you are comfortable with the chain, you can learn to adjust gears and brakes. Start with the ABC check and take your time. A bicycle you understand is a bicycle you trust.