Originally Posted by
Bikey Mikey
I usually clean the chain on the bike, but not as thoroughly. Every once in a while, I'll take the chain off and clean it. I've been thinking about getting the chain checker.
The Sheldon Brown shaker method is the most complete way of getting metal and sand grit out of the rollers. When the sediment settles in the bottom of the bottle, you can see the shiny metal bits that come out. I usually do two washings, as the first leaves a grit residue in the chain that can be felt.
I am less concerned about the cosmetic appearance on the outside of the side plates.