Remember, as the saying goes, “A little TLC goes a long way in keeping your bike in top shape.” With simple steps, you can make maintenance and chain-cleaning tasks easy. Not only beginners but regular riders can benefit from these tips, as we add what resources we can use for the ultimate guide.

3 Simple Steps for Effective Mountain Bike Gear Care

If you also want trouble-free trails and the best health of your bike gear, clean your gear from dirt and grime.

1. Regularly Check and Secure Bolts

Guess what? If the chain bolts are loose, issues with brakes, derailleurs, and suspension parts can be seen, as well as poor shifting performance, inefficient braking, and a less enjoyable ride.

Loose bolts can lead to:

Reduced Handling Precision: Wobbling or instability during sharp turns or high-speed rides.
Component Damage: Stress and wear on parts, potentially leading to costly repairs.
Serious Safety Risks: In extreme cases, mechanical failure mid-ride.

First things first, go for a regular inspection before you begin your cleaning tasks. Before every ride, inspect all critical bolts, including those on:

Handlebars and stem
Seat post
Pedals
Suspension components
Wheels and brake mounts

Check out the best quality torque wrench within your budget to secure your bolts. We have also recommended some at the end of the blog.

Even if everything appears fine, pay attention to how the bike feels. Out of concern, there can be unusual vibrations or instability signs you might be missing. And that can be a loose bolt connection. Check that one out!

Pro Tip: Always include a quick bolt inspection in your pre-ride routine to ensure everything is tight and secure. It’s a simple step to keep your ride smooth and worry-free!

For those of you who push off your limits, especially for off-road or high-impact rides, a little extra security can go a long way. Thread locker, a liquid adhesive (e.g., Loctite), applied to non-adjustable bolts can ensure pre-ride safety.

2. Clean the Drivetrain

Don’t be lazy. Be cautious, select a decent degreaser, and start scrubbing the chain. The process sounds so simple, but you have to clean the chain, front chainrings, and rear cassette properly. Do as suggested to wipe up dirt and debris; you also need handy products like

Bicycle Degreaser (A biodegradable one)
Small stiff-bristled brushes
Lint-free cloth rags
Chain Cleaning Device (optional)

3. Inspect Cables and Derailleurs

Look for any signs of wear or rust on the brake and derailleur cables, especially after wet rides. There could be signs of wear, fraying, or rust, particularly after wet or muddy rides. To ensure cables aren’t sticking or causing delays in shifting, test the movement of your derailleurs with these easy steps.

Step 1: Shift Through All Gears

First, place your bike on a repair stand. If you don’t have one, you can securely prop it up against your wall. You now have to pedal your bike (on a stand or while stationary) and shift through all the gears on both the front and rear derailleurs to check if they work smoothly.

Listen and feel for any resistance, sluggishness, or skipping.
Smooth, precise movement indicates good cable function.
Look for crisp shifts and precise tension on the cables.
Adjust the derailleur limit and cable tension as you clean the chain.

Step 2: Manually Operate the Derailleur

The second step starts with you locating the front and rear derailleurs on your bike. Here, you gently move the derailleur manually (without pedaling) to check for smooth operation. If it feels stiff or jerky, the cable may be sticking.

Step 3: Inspect Cable Tension

Look at how the cable moves as you shift. A cable that doesn’t slide freely or seems loose might need adjustment or lubrication.

Step 4: Pull Test (Optional)

With the bike stationary, use your hand to pull the exposed section of the derailleur cable lightly. If it resists or feels gritty, the cable may need replacement.

Step 5: Check Housing and Stops

Inspect cable housing and stops for cracks, cuts, dirt, or rust. By regular inspection, you can see what is hindering your cable movement and replace the damaged section.

Pro Tip: It’s likely for you to spot rust or wear, and if it happens, replace the cables promptly to ensure safety.

Regularly clean and lubricate cables.
Replace them if they start to show some noises and wear.
To prevent mid-ride issues, properly maintain your bike.
Apply the lubricant of your choice to the chain, cable pivots, and barrel adjusters periodically.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Your Bike Chain

Step 1: Prepare Your Space

Before you start, set up a cleaning space in a ventilated area. Also, get a bike mat or newspapers on the side to catch drips, and make sure you stabilize the bike securely.

Step 2: Shift Gears

In the very beginning, shift to the smallest chainring and rear cog. This will help your bike to ease tension on the chain and make the cleaning process effective.

Step 3: Apply Degreaser

With a Brush: Scrub the chain, chainrings, and cassette with a degreaser.
With a chain cleaner: Fill and use as per instructions; remember you have to backpedal to start cleaning.

Step 4: Scrub and Rinse

Scrub all components of the chain thoroughly, then rinse with clean water. You can use a gentle spray or damp cloth to avoid forcing water into the bearings.

Step 5: Wipe and Dry the Excess

Use a clean rag to remove the degreaser and dry the chain completely.

Step 6: Lubricate the Chain

Apply chain lubricant, placing a drop on each roller while backpedaling. Wipe off excess lubricant.

Step 7: Keep your chain clean and lubed

It’s a final check-down time when you shift your gear to spread lubricant evenly. You check and wipe off extra, get a clean finish to the bike, and just start enjoying the freshly cleaned bike.

5 Essential Tips for Keeping Your Bike Chain Running Smoothly

1. Degreasing the Chain

Degreasing removes the grease from where it should be. “Never be afraid to get a little water on your sprocket/chain. Just make sure it is dry/clean as best as possible before lubing,” says a regular cyclist when suggesting a fellow user on chain cleaning.

You can use plain water and just wipe down the greasy bits. But having a degreaser makes your task more efficient.

“Isn’t it possible to get water into the bearings if you wash it off like that?” This remains a question on the YouTube forum when WD-40 was used as a degreaser.

“I’m afraid this method isn’t quite sufficient,” says another, explaining the whole reason why using WD-40 solely is not enough. He mentioned the need for

The chain needs to be disconnected.
Chain to be bathed in the diluent.
Use a wet lubricant to lubricate the whole chain.
Then go through the degreasing again.

The price stacks in the long run if you use an expensive one. You can also use an affordable degreaser and cleaner. In that case, even a white spirit works fine after most rides.

2. Cleaning the chain

Here it is if you want to know how to clean a chain like a pro. You’ll need a bike stand, chain cleaner, degreaser, bike-specific cleaner, brushes, microfiber cloths, and a bucket of water.

First, remove your master link, then take your chain off.
It is time for you to put your ultrasonic cleanser to clean the surface.
Once cleaned, rinse your chainrings off with hot water.
Use a clean rag or microfiber cloth to remove excess moisture.
Allow the chain to air dry completely before applying lubricant.

3. Lubricating the Chain

Regularly lubricating your chain can improve the overall longevity of your drivetrain. You can see when you rinse off the dirt, you see smooth shifting and efficient power transfer.

Once your chain is clean and dry, you are ready to start with the next steps. You can try and test a few lubricants that your bike might need.

Apply a small drop of lubricant on each roller of the chain while backpedaling.
Ensure the lube is evenly spread throughout the chain.
Once applied, use a clean rag to wipe off any excess.

Application Tips for Chain Lubricator

Use a precision applicator or small brush for controlled application.
Apply sparingly to avoid buildup, and wipe away excess to prevent attracting dirt.
Reapply after cleaning your bike or riding in wet conditions.

4. Monitor Chain Wear

A worn chain can lead to gear skipping, making shifting less smooth and more unpredictable. There is a high chance if a chain is worn, it also causes increased wear on other drivetrain components like the cassette and chainrings.

Chain Stretch

It’s your job to visually inspect signs of rust, dirt or stretched links. If your chain is elongated, get it changed, as this can cause additional damage, not only to the internal but also to premature wear of drivetrain components.

Replacement Timing

It’s a sign for you to get your chain replaced if it stretches beyond 0.5% to 1% of its original length. We do not know just by time when to get it replaced. If you are a frequent rider, you need to get it replaced quicker than an occasional rider, but it also depends on other factors like riding conditions, maintenance habits, and the quality of the chain.

Additional Maintenance Tips for Your Bike

1. Regularly Wash Your Bike

Set up a routine to clean your bike regularly. Better use a specific chain cleaner to remove the dirt, grime, and grit that gets on your bike after your ride. You know that feeling, how an off-road ride makes you feel dirty. The same is what your bike feels, so let your bike have the shower it deserves, and this shall help you function on regular terms.

2. Frame Protection

Keep your frame cleaner after each passing ride. When cleaning your bike frames, you need to be particularly focused on suspension areas; this is because you want to maintain performance and prolong the life of your bike.

3. Tire Care

Make it a habit to check your tire pressure before each ride. We understand what overinflated and underinflated tires can do to our ride.

Underinflated ones can increase the rolling resistance and increase the risk of pinch flats. There is an increased chance of the tire flexing excessively and leading to premature wear of the tires.

On the contrary, if the tires are overinflated, it reduces the traction. It becomes hard to control the bikes in corners and provides a harsher ride, as it absorbs less shock. Better take care of your tire for better safety on the road, gravel, and mountain biking experiences.

Get your favorite wheels with the LBS!

[AGX] Extra Wide Gravel Wheels
[6-Spoke] Carbon Gravel Wheelset
[Wild Dragon II] 26″ Carbon Tri-Spoke Fat Bike Wheelset
E*thirteen Grappler Enduro MoPo
Schwalbe Magic Mary
Maxxis Minion DHR II
Vee Attack HPL
Schwalbe Racing Ray

Why Use a Torque Wrench?

Precision:

When the bike has consistent tightening, there is less risk of stripped threads and damage, and no harm is seen for the bike assembly. For precise tightening, using a decent torque under the bike’s manual or instructions is beneficial.

Safety:

Over-tightened fasteners on the chain can induce stress, which is one of the main causes of injuries and accidents. To make sure your bike can withstand intended loads, a better torque is used to do the tightening just perfectly.

Performance:

Your bike can perform well without the risks of leaks, vibrations, and premature wear if you use the best-recommended torques.

Best Torque Wrenches for Mountain Bikes

1. Park Tool AK-5 Advanced Mechanic Tool Kit

Park Tool AK-5 Advanced Mechanic Tool Kit

Torque Range: 2 to 14 Nm (18 to 124 lbs)
Type: Ratcheting 3/8″ drive

Consists of 21 different contents for bike maintenance, including the

Chain Tool (CT-3.3)
Chain Wear Gauge (CC-4)
Chain Whip with Pedal Wrench (HCW-16.3)
Cable Cutter (CN-10)
Brake Disc Alignment Tool (DT-2)

2. Park Tool TW-6.2

Torque Range: 10 to 60 Nm (88 to 530 in lbs)
Type: Ratcheting 3/8″ drive
Use: Suitable for larger components like crank bolts and bottom brackets.

3. Topeak D-Torq Wrench

Torque Range: 1 to 20 Nm
Precise readings; include various bits (2, 2.5, 3, 4, 5, and 6 mm hex, Torx 25).
Under budget of approximately $249

You can select the correct bit for fasteners and even get audible alerts to stop torquing when you reach the target measure. It’s easy to carry in your bike tool kit, versatile, and has a reversible ratchet head.

6 Best Lubricants for Chain, Cable Pivots, and Barrel Adjusters

1. Light Machine Oil

Light machine oil has a low-viscosity formula many cyclists love to use regularly. It has a petroleum-based thin lube that even goes in small spaces and ensures lubrication for bike engines.

Examples: WD-40 Specialist Bike Chain Lube, 3-IN-ONE Multi-Purpose Oil

2. Dry Teflon-Based Lubricants

Dry Teflon-based lubricants have a synthetic fluoropolymer-based lubricating formula. The best part about this lubricant is it has non-sticky and low-friction properties. Even when applied dry, it leaves behind a protective coating, which prevents heat, corrosion, rust, and friction.

Examples: Finish Line Dry Teflon Lube, Tri-Flow Superior Dry Lubricant, Muc-Off Dry Lube, Finish Line Dry Lube, CRC PTFE Dry Lube

3. Silicone-Based Sprays

Silicon-based sprays are the most trusted lubricants of all time. If you need to lube small moving parts like pivots and adjusters, you can get hold of this handy product. This product lubricates and creates a long-lasting heat-, UV-, and water-repellent barrier on your chain, cable pivots, and barrel adjusters.

Examples: 3M Silicone Lubricant Spray, CRC 808 Silicone Spray, DuPont Silicone Lubricant, Ballistol Silicone Spray

4. Grease for Barrel Adjusters (Optional)

Many cyclists find it beneficial to use grease barrel adjusters to prevent corrosion and reduce the risk of seizing on their bikes. But its use is not compulsory. Similar to others, it is a corrosion protector and prevents gunk build-up in your gear and chain.

Examples: Park Tool PolyLube 1000, Phil Wood Waterproof Grease.

5. Wet Lube

If you ride frequently in wet, muddy, or rainy conditions, a wet lubricant can be your best bet. It has a thicker consistency and longer-lasting lubrication properties best for your case. That does not guarantee it to be the best of all. It requires more frequent cleaning and application than others.

Examples: Muc-Off Wet Lube and Silca Synergetic Wet Lube are some of the best wet lubes for the chains.

Get your Muc-Off 8-in-1 Cleaning Kit: Tub with 8 Pieces!

6. Wax-based lubes

Wax-based lubes have a thin formula and create a smooth film on chain links. There is less power loss if you use such lubes during pedaling and no friction. Once try it and see how it gives you more precise gear shifts, durability, and a better riding experience.

Examples: Squirt Lube, Molten Speed Wax, Silica Super Secret Chain Lube, CeramicSpeed UFO Drip

Conclusion

If you have any further queries, LBS staff can provide personalized advice on bike selection, maintenance, and upgrades. Your local bike shop (LBS) has the expertise and tools to handle complex repairs and adjustments. So, book an appointment for a professional tune-up, and (don’t wait) you can order your favorite mountain bike products at your fingertips!

FAQs

Can kerosene be used as a degreaser for cleaning chains?

Kerosene is a viable and cost-effective substitute for the degreaser you can have. However, it is not the best choice for users in the long run to clean the built-up dirt. It’s messy and smelly, with potential risks of sealed chains.

How often should I clean my bike chain?

It’s like how often you need to take a bath; cleaning your chain regularly is a key to healthy biking. You cannot skip out on cleaning after a muddy or wet ride. But for regular dry rides, you can consider cleaning after every 2-3 rides.

How often should I lubricate my chain?

In dry conditions, you can use your favorite chain lubricant after 2-3 rides. In wet conditions, lubricate after every ride. Basically, after each clean, you have to have your bike lubed, and no cheating; you have to get it done for your bike’s safety.

How do I check for chain wear?

Your bike starts to show symptoms; you just have to keep cautious. You can also use a chain wear tool to measure the distance between the pins in case you have doubts. You can take the help of a professional and see if. If the chain has stretched beyond a certain limit.

What mistakes to avoid when cleaning your bike?

No matter how careful we get, there are some common mistakes we end up making in bike maintenance. We do not know how to store our bikes or how to lube them (see if we under- or overdo it). Sometimes, we wish we knew the importance of checking tire pressure regularly earlier.

How do I store my bike during breaks?

When your bike is your best buddy, we need to be extra careful about how to store it in the off-season. We start with regular cleaning, lubing, and inspection and store it in a dry place. It’s a must to have a bike storage stand to prevent tire flat spots.

Is WD-40 the right cleaner for my bike?

Many people have concerns that it can enter into the freewheel and make the bicycle noisier. There are many reasons why not to. Because with prolonged use of WD-40 as the cleaner, the new chain lube won’t hold, and it’s super shitty for the environment.