Bicycle Mechanics - Lube Thread - How Often?

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View Full Version : Lube Thread - How Often?


ivan_yulaev
05-09-11, 11:56 AM
So, I've been wondering lately, how often to reapply lubes, particularly wet ones? I typically do every 100-150 miles (assuming little/no rain riding). Last time after cleaning my chain, I re-lubed and decided to see how far I could go. I pushed 250 miles without getting any squeaking in my chain. Also, the chain stays cleaner looking the way - less oil on the outside to attract dirt, I guess. So, for you guys using wet lubes - how many miles between re-application?


bradtx
05-09-11, 12:16 PM
i_y, I lube the chain at roughly ten hours of usage.

Brad

Sixty Fiver
05-09-11, 12:22 PM
I usually touch up my chains once a week if I am logging big miles and will wipe them or clean them after particularly dirty rides or when they aren't shiny.


San Rensho
05-09-11, 01:19 PM
I wipe the chain after every ride with a rag, and lube it religiously, on Sunday of course.

MNBikeCommuter
05-09-11, 01:24 PM
If it's dry conditions, it's in the 800-1000 mile range. With a thorough cleaning and oil, a chain lasts 6-9k miles. For my winter bike, divide those values by about 5.

davidad
05-09-11, 01:33 PM
I remove and clean my chains in an ultrasonic cleaner every 650 to 700 miles. The chain on my tourer has 10,000 miles on it and shows little wear. I think the difference is the ultrasonic cleaner.
I lube my chains with 4 pts mineral spirits to 1pt chainsaw bar oil.
http://draco.nac.uci.edu/rbfaq/FAQ/8d.2.html