Wax or oil on your chain? Here’s our answer
It’s probably one of the most frequently asked questions when it comes to bike maintenance: should you use wax or oil on your chain? It’s a topic you’ll find countless opinions about online, and almost everyone seems to have a clear preference.
That’s why in this blog, we’ll explain how we look at it, so you can make a well-informed choice yourself.
Our answer? It depends on the rider.
There is no right or wrong choice when it comes to wax or oil. Both have their own strengths. Which one suits you best depends on a few simple questions: what weather conditions do you mainly ride in, how much preparation time do you want to spend on maintenance, and which advantages and disadvantages matter most to you?
Why isn’t there one right answer?
Wax and oil both work well, but in different ways.
Oil penetrates deep into the chain links and provides long-lasting, reliable lubrication in a wide range of conditions. Your chain doesn’t have to be completely clean before application, making it quick and easy to use. The downside is that oil also attracts dirt and dust, which means your chain can become dirty more quickly and may need to be cleaned and lubricated more often.
Wax, on the other hand, provides a cleaner and quieter drivetrain. Because wax leaves a drier layer on the chain, much less dirt sticks to it, helping your drivetrain stay cleaner for longer. However, it does require a little more preparation: the chain needs to be thoroughly degreased and clean before applying the wax for the best results.
In short, it’s about choosing what best suits your riding style and the amount of time you want to spend on maintenance.
Our overview: which product for which situation?
To make your choice easier, we’ve listed the different riding conditions and our recommended products below.
Dry & dusty conditions
Dry Weather Lube
Dirt-repellent chain oil for dry and dusty riding conditions.
VIEW PRODUCTWet & extreme conditions
Wet Weather Lube
Long-lasting lubrication and protection for wet and muddy rides.
VIEW PRODUCTChanging weather & little preparation
All Weather Lube
Versatile chain oil for both dry and wet riding conditions.
VIEW PRODUCTFor a quiet & clean drivetrain
For riders who want a quiet, clean drivetrain and are willing to properly prepare their chain before waxing.
Racing & maximum performance
Developed for riders who want to get maximum performance from their drivetrain.
E-bike & city bike
Bicycle Oil
Chain oil for everyday lubrication of e-bikes and city bikes.
VIEW PRODUCTWhich one should you choose?
There is no universally right choice between wax and oil. There is only the choice that best suits how, where and how often you ride.
Still unsure? Start by looking at the conditions you ride in most often and how much time you want to spend maintaining your drivetrain. The overview above will then help you choose the lubricant that best suits your needs.
Keep Your Bike Smiling! ☀️
