Cleanliness
 

How important is it to keep a bike clean? Not long ago I found some hills in fields with dirt tracks on them, and it only takes one ride to filthy up my bike pretty well, even if it hasn't rained recently. A lot of dirt obviously gathers on the chain and sprockets which is a pain in the ass to clean. Do I need to after every ride?

Think drivetrain, and brakes. Keep those areas clean, and lubed where appropriate, and you will be golden! :)


... Brad

How reliable do you want your equipment....?

It sounds like you may be going overboard with the lube. Wipe it off the outside of the chain or use a wax based lube. I use wax because it's cleaner.

Drivetrain and brake pads / rims.

Roger that.

Gruk in moving bits causes excessive wear and poor performance. However, it can also mask damage, cracks, and so forth on non-moving bits.

I always pretty thoroughly washed down my MTB after a gooey ride.