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JUNE 2026 | 55
Left: Some of the“ support team” needed for thorough chain maintenance. Below: Scottoiler is a popular brand of on-board oiler, which saves time and effort. Many options and alternatives are available.
the other as you rotate the rear wheel in the direction of travel, then backwards. It should stay centered on the sprockets. At home, it can all be done with specialty tools.
Now we come to the controversial part: Defining what“ clean” is and choosing one of the many options for getting there. Major manufacturers warn against kerosene, diesel, and WD- 40. Avoid anything that’ s flammable or could get past the chain seals and“ clean” the lube out of the pins. Moisture can contribute to rust and corrosion, so a waterless approach is often the better option.
Lubrication is another tricky task, largely because of the multitude of products, each able to do the job and wanting us to think they are indeed the best. Chain makers never specify any lube other than heavy gear oil, useful for both cleaning and lubrication. To minimize the downside – fling – know that when applied frequently, just a dab will do. All this“ R and R” is against Rust and for Rollers.
Aside from the products and tools involved, the techniques are almost infinite and tend to be both time- consuming and messy, or worse, hit or miss.
Many experienced riders opt for a far easier and effective way to deal with the nuances and nuisances of chain drive care. Namely, on- board oilers. There are plenty of choices, like Scottoiler( shown), Nemo, Loobman, Tutoro, plus DIY types. They make sense, because whether they function electronically, by gravity,
vacuum, or pressure, automatically or rider- operated, you need no druid rituals, physical contortions, gadgets, or stands. No mess at home and, properly fed, a minimum on the road( though oilers can be tricky to use if you ride off- road regularly). An IV for your chain, oilers ensure a longer, better life as you ride.
Forget grunge brushes, cardboard shields, overspray, and general filth. This all-in-one tool cleans and lubricates chains.