Chain lube

Chain lube reduces drive chain and sprocket wear; O-ring and X-ring chains need cleaning and lubing about every 500 km.

Chain lube lubricates the rollers of the drive chain and protects it from corrosion. A well-maintained chain and sprockets last several times longer.

Most modern road bikes use an O-ring, X-ring or Z-ring chain, where the grease on the pins is sealed in by the rings. The outside still needs lubricating so the rings and rollers don't dry out. Use a lube and cleaner made for sealed chains – harsh solvents and pressure washers damage the rings.

A good routine is to clean and lube the chain about every 500 km and always after riding in rain or mud. Lube the chain warm, on the inner rollers, and let it set for a few minutes before riding. Check the chain slack and sprocket wear at the same time, and work out the length of a new chain with our chain length calculator.

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