Thread: Help me CLEAN!
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Old 02-06-10 | 05:14 PM
  #8  
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irclean
Born Again Pagan
 
Joined: Aug 2009
Posts: 2,241
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From: Southwestern Ontario

Bikes: Schwinn hybrid, Raleigh MTB

I use a cheap chain cleaner like this, some Simple Green degreaser, and some Tri Flow chainlube. First, I brush the snow off the bike as best I can, then I bring it inside and place it on an old entranceway mat. I let it thaw out for a couple of hours and then clean the chain; I fill the tool with Simple Green and pedal backwards for about 30 revolutions, empty, and repeat until it looks clean. Then I fill the tool with warm water to rinse, let dry, and apply the lube, going through all the gears to lube the cassette and chain rings (it's a lot easier if you have a stand, but not impossible without.) Some Simple Green and an old toothbrush works to clean off any excess gunk on the drivetrain. I then put some lithium grease on my fingers and wipe down all the exposed cables and put a drop of lube in all the housings. Lastly I take a damp sponge and wipe down the bike and put it back in my unheated garage. I try to do this once a week and the whole process takes about a half hour. When the season is over I will remove the drivetrain and give the whole bike a thorough cleaning. Works for me!
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