Originally Posted by
Proofide
Incidentally, where do people stand on the question of the factory lube you get on a new chain? Do you run with it until it's time to clean the chain? It seems awfully sticky stuff, and the shop where I got my SRAM chain advised me to remove it and use my normal lubricant, as the factory lube would attract dirt.
I just install the chain and ride.
In the interest of full disclosure I will admit to:
1. Not being particularly fastidious about chain cleanilness and lubrication.
2. Never having made an effort to research or document chain life.
Chain lubrication threads should be automatically redacted to "Religion and Politics". I've got a close personal friend who carefully keeps track of the miles on each of his bikes so that every 1,500 miles he can service the chain. Servicing involves spotless cleaning it rinsing and drying, and submerging it in a home brewed concoction of melted wax and engine oil. I think there's an incantation that goes with it too but, since I'm not a true believer, I've never been allowed to watch.
I don't do all that. I don't find it necessary to replace chains all that often either.