Cleaning your bike chain is one of the most basic ways to maintain your bike in good riding condition. A dirty bike chain equates to wasted energy during pedaling and to heavier wear on other components of the drivetrain. That’s because the chain passes through these other components, causing more friction with them when dirty. There are two ways to clean the chain: either by removing it or by cleaning it in place. In either case, you’ll want to prepare a workstation with rags, lubricant, degreaser, and enough in which to set the bike on its seat and handlebars. Experts recommend that regular riders check their chains once a week. Below are simple tips for making sure that your chain is clean and well maintained.
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Removing the Chain
If you decide to remove the chain from your bike to clean it, you have two options. The first is to buy (or borrow) an ultrasonic cleaner (also used for cleaning jewelry, coins, eyeglasses), into which you put the chain to be cleaned. Ultrasonic cleaners are the most thorough cleaning option, though you will still need a high-performance lubricant for the chain once it has been cleaned. As great as ultrasonic cleaners are, though, they are expensive (expect to pay between $40 and $115).
If you are going to remove the chain, the second option is to place it into a closeable canister, with degreaser or a mixture of soap and water. Whereas the ultrasonic cleaner does the cleaning for you, you’ll have to shake the canister vigorously to clean your chain. It might not be quite as thorough as the ultrasonic cleaner either, but it will due.
Whichever method you choose, dry the chain once it has been washed. Next, apply lubricant to a rag and run the rag over both sides of the chain, wiping off excess lubricant. Once you have finished, put the chain back on the bike and turn the pedals, shifting gears a few times.
Leaving the Chain On
If you’re leaving the chain on, once again, you have a couple options. The first is to buy (or borrow) a chain scrubber, which mounts to the chain and the chain passes through to get brushed clean. Fill the scrubber with soap and water or degreaser, and then slowly turn the pedals until the full length of the chain has passed through the scrubber several times. Lubricate the chain, wiping off excess with a rag while turning the pedals gently.
Your other option, if you’re leaving the chain on, is to perform the function of the chain scrubber manually. Take a stiff-bristled brush (even a toothbrush will due in a pinch), dip it in soap and water or degreaser, and gently scrub each link in the chain while slowly turning the pedals. Once you have scrubbed both sides of the chain thoroughly, dry the chain with a rag, and apply lubricant in the manner described above.
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Sources:
https://www.wikihow.com/Clean-a-Bicycle-Chain
https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/bike-chain.html
https://www.bicycling.com/repair/a34660013/how-to-clean-your-bike-chain/
https://viralcycling.com/how-to-clean-bicycle-chain-best-easy-method/
