Oiling the bike
 

What sort of vegetable oil can I use to oil the chain etc. Is canola oil ok?

What sort of vegetable oil can I use to oil the chain etc. Is canola oil ok?

No.

Veggie oils create problems without benefits. They are likely to gum up and will attract dirt. Beyond that, you'll find viscosity, oxidation, and low temperature issues. For the most, veggie oils are the go-to lube in situations where mineral oils may contaminate.

On a bike, I'd only use it to put on grips - although I prefer alcohol. And, BTW, not the drinking kind.

Just out of curiosity, why would you want to use vegetable oil? It is probably not adequate as lubricant for bicycle applications.

Canola oil is fine but definitely stay away from peanut oil as many chains seem to be allergic.


(troll oil also works pretty well)

Try Oil of Olay. It'll keep your chain running smooth and make it look younger than it really is, and make all the other trolls jealous of your pretty bike. (Some pink streamers at the end of the handlebars would look nice, too!).

In case it's not a troll, check with your local bike shop.

aren't ya oil being a bit tough on da guy?

friends of mine many many moons ago tried some cooking oil as chain lube and it caused a great mess, super hard to clean off. Doesn't seem to be worth it.

I have found myself having to use 3-in-1 oil on two separate occasions during the last 20 years. Once was on a tour in South Texas. Once was in Ireland. It's a friggin' mess to use anything other than dedicated chain lube. Other oils will get you home, but its pretty nasty.

Some mechanics say chain cleanliness is more important than lube type, even water can reduce friction a lot. Vegetable oil is not optimal but OTOH pretty easy to wash away with detergent/degreaser.

Let's turn this into a best chain lube thread. I'll start: NFS is the best lube.

a wind up merchant me thinks.