Chain Lube

Might seem like a dumb question, but what is everyone using to lube their chains? I've been using an old can of NAPA brand chain lube I had laying around. Seems like it doesn't last very long before it starts to get "squeaky" again though.

 

I use chain wax, it doesn't sling all over everything.

 

I just replaced my chain and sprockets. To keep from wasting expensive spray and getting it all over sprockets, hubs and rear wheel I got the GreaseNinja for $16, which works with any spray.
I use the type that does fly off, but messy to apply without GreaseNinja. I'll leave the brand for others to recommend.

 

Chain Wax here as well
Same brand as Y2K

 

I use 80/90 gear lube with a Hawke oiler. I never had much luck with the chain wax, it just never seemed to last very long.

That GreaseNinja is kind of cool idea.

 

That Chain Wax seems like it might do the trick. I don't mind keeping it in my bag and applying the stuff whenever, but I really do hate to have it fly all over the place when I'm out for a ride. The wheels on a 2nd gen are the most tedious thing I've ever had to clean. Thanks for the suggestions!

 

Just switched to Dupont Chain saver.. Have only using it for a week, so no real evaluation yet. Used Maxima Chain wax for years. Good stuff but seems to attract road dirt & road grime. The Dupont stuff has Teflon and is supposed to keep the chain much cleaner. Minimal fling off with both.

 

When you guys reapply do you clean your chain at all?

 

I've been using Dupont chain saver for a while now with good results. Chain and sprocket are much cleaner than when I used to use plain old chain lube and they generally stay that way.

I still clean the chain before reapplying just for reassurance though.

 

I put it on about every 500 miles....clean the chain once a year, usually before the first ride of the year.

 

Might I ask how you clean? I've heard differing reports as to using a brush or not on the o-rings.

 

Good question, I haven't had to clean yet as my chain was new from PO and he never got the bike running.

 

WD40 and an old toothbrush, cleans all the gunk right off. Make sure to rewax after.

 

For regular cleaning, this. For extra cleaning Simple Green and soft bristle brush. And the Dupont teflon stuff.

 

I use this. And as the can says "Sticks like shit"

 

When I took off my old chain, several links were stiff from either lack of lubrication or water getting in. I love Simple Green, but would not spray on chain or use with brush. I feel it is important to maintain the integrity of the lubricant to keep moisture out. I wouldn't spray on WD-40, because it too will dissolve lubricants, just spray it on a rag and wipe sides of chain and sprocket. Never use a power washer or DIY car wash, because it will drive detergents between bolts, axles and parts. I had one rear sprocket bolt that was corroded and took a lot of persuading to get out (PO must have used one). It's nice to have a pristine bike, but chains and sprockets need lubrication.

BTW, Dupont no longer makes Chain Saver, could not find it anywhere on line yesterday, even though Dupont's web site said 1400 Walmart stores carry it!

 

Here's a link to all you ever wanted to know about DuPont chain lubes with info on many more brands of chain lubes too.

http://www.webbikeworld.com/t2/dupont-motorcycle-chain-lube-2012/

 

I've started to use the stuff from these guys: http://ptlube.co.uk/ A small UK company.

been happy so far and some good info on the site. Haven't tried their automatic oiler yet - still happy to do it manually since I do so few miles.

 

I've used maxima chain wax for years. I clean the chain about 4 times a year with motul chain cleaner, works instantly.
I lube the chain every 500 miles or so, as soon as I get back home and the chain is still hot from riding. The wax literally "boils" as soon as it touches the hot metal reaching deep in the x-rings.

 

I've tried Maxima's chain cleaner, "Clean Up". Works pretty good but you do have to rinse it with what they describe as a "hard" stream of water. There's also a disclaimer about discoloring painted parts.