HOW TO WAX YOUR MOUNTAIN BIKE CHAIN
A clean and well-lubricated chain makes a world of difference while mountain biking. Less noise, less wear, and a smoother pedaling feel: these are all benefits of a well-maintained drivetrain. That's why more and more cyclists are choosing chain wax instead of traditional oil. This article explains why and how you can easily wax your chain yourself.
Why is waxing better than oiling?
Chain wax has become incredibly popular in recent years. While chain oil often attracts dirt and quickly blackens your drivetrain, wax forms a dry, protective layer that repels dust and sand.
The benefits at a glance:
- Less dirt build-up, so a cleaner drive
- Less wear on chain and sprockets
- Quieter, smoother chain running
- Longer lifespan of your drive
So waxing is not only cleaner, but ultimately also more sustainable for your bike.
Step 1: Clean your chain thoroughly
Before applying wax, your chain must be completely free of grease. Any old oil or wax residue will prevent the new layer from adhering properly.
Here's how to do it:
- Remove the chain (with a Missing Link or chain tool).
- Degrease the chain in a special degreasing agent or a jar with warm water and dishwashing liquid.
- Rinse and dry the chain thoroughly.
Tip: A truly clean chain shines and feels dry. If you still feel any grease, repeat the degreasing process.
Step 2: Apply the chain wax
Shake the bottle well and apply the wax drop by drop to the inside of the chain. Slowly reverse the pedals until every link is coated.
Then let the wax dry for at least a few hours, preferably overnight. The wax will then form a strong protective layer between the chain links, keeping dirt out and allowing them to move smoothly as you pedal.
Important: Never apply wax to a dirty chain, as this will seal in the dirt and increase wear.
Step 3: Maintenance and repeat
Do you often ride through mud or wet conditions? Then you can reapply wax every 100 to 150 kilometers. If you ride mainly on dry trails, once every few weeks is often sufficient.
A major advantage of wax: it stays clean much longer and hardly attracts any dirt. A quick brush is often enough to get everything running smoothly again.
Waxing = better driving
Besides a quieter drivetrain, you'll also notice smoother shifting and a longer chain life. Plus, it saves a lot of cleaning after every ride. Chain wax keeps your mountain bike in top condition, and you'll feel it with every pedal stroke.
In our CUBE Stores, you'll find Squirt chain wax, degreasers, and handy maintenance tools. Our mechanics are happy to advise you on the right maintenance for your bike type.