I just put a new chain on my vintage build. I searched the forum and read from other users that they liked the SRAM PC-830 chain for 6 speed freewheels. So, I bought one.

This is the first time using anything other than a shimano chain. The chain lubrication seems extremely viscous and sticky. So much so that even after cleaning my sprocket and chain rings, after a few revolutions the gears are very dirty.

I usually keep my drivetrains very clean. I almost feel like I need to degrease this chain already.

What am I missing?

Does anyone recommend a different chain than the SRAM? Shifting is perfect by the way.

Yep, normal now. KMC seem to come the same way now. I clean them before I install them.

Yep, the way it seems to be these days.
I find that a few lube-and-wipe down cycles takes care of it. Lube, ride, wipe down, repeat.

I find that the factory lube does get sticky if it’s been sitting around, even in the package. My cleaning regimen is to put the chain in a sealed container covered with mineral spirits. Agitate for two minutes, let it sit for 10. Rinse and repeat with fresh mineral spirits. I also re-use mineral spirits by filtering off the crud with a coffee filter/strainer setup.

just keep the filter set up out of the kitchen.

People have by now gotten used to the possibility of maintaining clean-looking sprockets and chain, thanks to the availability of today's higher-tech, drier lube formulations that allow a chain to get by with very scant (visibly) levels of lubrication.

The factory lube is quite good though, for the situation where the new chain is left to fend on it's own for perhaps a few weeks or more of regular use. I used to see this on new bikes coming into the shop for their first tune-up, where no maintenance other than tire inflation appeared to have yet been done. And the chains still operated quietly, with little in the way of dirt showing (other than that first bit of dust and maybe dried leaf particles that had eliminated the external stickiness within the first few rides.

So I recommend to just ignore the chain for a while (don't stare at it, it's rude). Enjoy life while keeping your hands clean, and note that the now seemingly over-lubed chain (which can and perhaps should be wiped down using a rag with just a light spritz of WD40 on it) WILL lose it's stickiness quickly. The factory lube isn't really for "shipping", but rather is chosen for it's ability to cover the greatest number of use possibilities, so is very effective at keeping the chain quiet for a good long time.

I see! Besides looking dirty or I guess, greasy, there really is nothing wrong. This is my first experience with a non shimano chain. This is also my first experience with any other drive train than 9, 10, or 11s. I will leave it be. Thank you.

Thank you for the replies everyone. If the drive train starts getting too grimy I'll degrease and lubricate the chain as others seem to do. So far so good!

Way way back the mixture that was coating Regina chains was immediately before first use was solvent removed. Then your oil of choice, many an argument on that!