A well-lubricated bike chain runs more smoothly, makes less noise and lasts longer. Still, it is not always clear how often you should lubricate your bike chain. If you lubricate too little, friction increases and your chain and sprockets wear faster. If you use too much lubricant, dirt can stick to the chain more easily.
How often you should lubricate your bike chain depends on the weather, the type of lubricant and the conditions in which you ride. In this blog, we explain when your chain needs fresh lubrication and how to do it properly.
How often should you lubricate a bike chain?
There is no fixed number of kilometres that applies to every cyclist. As a general guideline, you can check your bike chain every 200 to 300 kilometres. This does not mean you always need to lubricate the chain immediately. First look, listen and feel whether it is actually necessary.
Your chain may need fresh lubrication when:
the drivetrain makes more noise than usual;
the chain feels dry;
shifting becomes less smooth;
you hear a slight squeaking or rattling sound while riding;
you have ridden through a lot of rain, mud or sand;
you have thoroughly cleaned the bike chain.
Try not to wait until the chain starts squeaking loudly. At that point, most of the lubricating layer has disappeared and extra friction is developing between the moving parts.
The weather determines how often you need to lubricate
The conditions in which you ride have a major influence on how long a lubricant stays effective.
Riding in dry weather
During dry rides, lubricant generally stays on the chain for longer. Check the chain regularly and lubricate it again as soon as it sounds or feels dry.
For dry conditions, you can use Dry Weather Lube or chain wax. These products attract relatively little dust and dirt, helping the drivetrain stay cleaner for longer.
Riding in rain and wet conditions
Rain and road spray can gradually wash lubricant off the chain. If you often ride in wet conditions, you should therefore check and lubricate the chain more frequently.
Use Wet Weather Lube or All Weather Lube in rainy conditions. These lubricants stay on the chain better in wet weather.
Always dry the chain with a clean cloth after a wet ride. Then check whether the chain still runs smoothly and quietly.
Riding through mud and sand
Mud and sand can mix with the lubricant on the chain. This creates an abrasive layer that can accelerate wear on the chain, cassette and chainrings.
After a muddy ride, clean the drivetrain thoroughly first. Only apply fresh lubricant once the chain is completely clean and dry. Applying new lubricant over a dirty chain does not solve the problem and can actually trap even more dirt.
Chain oil or chain wax?
How often you should lubricate your bike chain also depends on the product you use.
Chain oil
Chain oil penetrates deeply between the chain links and provides long-lasting lubrication. Depending on the conditions, you can choose an oil for dry weather, wet weather or all weather conditions.
Choose the right lubricant
Choose the right chain lubricant for your riding conditions.
Chain wax
Chain wax forms a lubricating wax layer after drying. This helps the chain attract less dirt and makes it easier to keep clean. Wax should always be applied to a thoroughly cleaned and dry chain.
CyclOn Wax Lube is suitable for cyclists who value a clean drivetrain. For maximum performance and very low friction, you can use CyclOn Pro Chain Wax.
The most important thing is not just which product you choose, but that it matches the conditions in which you ride.
Choose your wax
A clean drivetrain or maximum performance? Choose the wax that suits your ride.
Do you need to clean the chain first?
You do not need to completely degrease the chain before every lubrication. If the chain is still reasonably clean, you can wipe it with a dry cloth before applying a fresh, thin layer of lubricant.
Is the chain black, greasy or covered in sand and dirt? Then clean it thoroughly first with CyclOn Bionet Chain Cleaner. Use a suitable chain brush to loosen dirt between the links and around the sprockets.
Rinse or wipe away the loosened dirt and allow the chain to dry completely. Only then should you apply fresh oil or wax. This allows the lubricant to penetrate properly between the chain links.
How to lubricate a bike chain
Lubricating a bike chain is easy when you follow the right order.
Step 1 – Check and clean the chain
First check whether the chain is dirty. Wipe a reasonably clean chain with a dry cloth. For a heavily contaminated drivetrain, use CyclOn Bionet Chain Cleaner and a chain brush.
Step 2 – Let the chain dry
Never apply fresh lubricant to a wet chain. Water can prevent oil or wax from bonding properly to the surface. Dry the chain with a clean microfibre cloth and allow any remaining moisture enough time to evaporate.
Step 3 – Apply the lubricant
Slowly rotate the pedals backwards and apply one drop of lubricant to each chain link. Focus mainly on the rollers and connection points of the chain. That is where lubrication is needed most.
Using more lubricant does not automatically lead to a better result. Too much lubricant actually attracts extra dirt.
Step 4 – Let the product penetrate
Allow the oil or wax enough time to penetrate. It is best to apply the lubricant after your ride or the evening before your next ride. Chain wax in particular needs time to dry properly and form a strong wax layer.
Step 5 – Remove excess lubricant
Run a clean, dry cloth along the outside of the chain while turning the pedals backwards. The lubricant should be between the chain links and should not remain as a thick layer on the outside of the chain.
Common mistakes when lubricating a bike chain
Avoid these common mistakes:
applying fresh lubricant over a dirty or sandy chain;
lubricating the chain while it is still wet;
using too much oil or wax;
not removing excess lubricant;
using the same lubricant in all weather conditions;
waiting until the chain starts squeaking loudly before lubricating;
allowing lubricant to get onto brake discs or brake pads.
Be especially careful around disc brakes when applying lubricant. Oil or wax on the brake discs can reduce braking performance and cause squealing brakes.
Listen to your bike chain regularly
The best lubrication schedule for your bike chain is not based on a fixed calendar. Check the drivetrain regularly and pay particular attention to noise, dirt and the conditions in which you have been riding.
A quiet, clean and smooth-running chain usually still has enough lubrication. Does the drivetrain sound dry, have you ridden through rain or mud, or have you cleaned the chain? Then it is time to lubricate again.
By cleaning and lubricating the chain at the right time, you reduce wear and help keep your chain, cassette and chainrings in good condition for longer.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to lubricate my bike chain after every ride?
No, that is usually not necessary. However, check the chain after a wet or muddy ride. Dry and clean the chain if necessary before applying fresh lubricant.
Can I use too much chain oil?
Yes. Too much oil remains on the outside of the chain and attracts dirt. Apply one drop per chain link and remove excess product with a dry cloth.
When is the best time to lubricate my chain?
It is best to lubricate the chain after riding. This gives the product enough time to penetrate between the chain links or dry before your next ride.
Why does my bike chain turn black so quickly?
A black chain is usually caused by a combination of excess lubricant, dirt and wear particles. Clean the chain thoroughly, avoid using too much product and wipe the outside of the chain after lubrication.
Does a new bike chain need to be lubricated immediately?
A new chain is usually already lubricated at the factory, so you do not need to lubricate it again immediately. If you want to switch to chain wax or hot wax, the factory lubricant must first be completely removed.
