I use prolink or the blue finishline cleaner lube, with both I just put some on as I spin the chain around a few times, let it sit and after about 3-5 minutes of making sure the brakes and gears are adjusted I run the chain through a rag till virtually nothing comes off. I try to do this every few weeks or whenever I think the chain looks dry. I find the cassette and crank don't end up gunked up doing this though I'll wipe off the chainring and push the rag against the der pulleys after I've finished the chain. Chain wear is fairly average. Mud ride requires a cleaning after every ride.