TIL a bike shop vet told me to stop using WD-40 on chains

I was lubing my chain at the shop last week and this old-timer mechanic, like 55 years biking, just shook his head and said "you're just attracting grime." He convinced me to switch to a dry wax lube - it cost me 12 bucks - and now my drivetrain actually stays clean longer. Has anyone else noticed a huge difference switching lubes mid-season?

2 comments

2 Comments

fiona_hunt711d ago

That old mechanic was looking out for you. WD-40 is great for displacing water but it's not a real lubricant for bike chains, it just washes the factory grease off and leaves a sticky film that grabs every bit of dust on the road. I made the switch to a dry wax lube last year and my chain actually stays silver instead of turning into a black gritty mess. It only takes a few minutes to reapply after a wet ride so it's totally worth the extra cost.

lucast811d ago

Switched to a dry wax lube last summer after my chain literally turned into tar in a dusty gravel ride. Night and day difference - my chain barely picks up any grime now and shifting feels way smoother even after a few wet commutes. Totally worth the couple extra bucks and the few minutes to reapply after rain.