Chain waxing kit

[cadenceblur]

3 minutes ago, The Ouzo said:

there are people that take their bikes to the LBS for a wash and lube, so definitely a market for this

THIS is very true 

[MTB SA]

On 3/12/2024 at 9:55 AM, W@nted said:

I tried the hot waxing for a few months, but I am back on smoove lube. Hot waxing is definitely a smoother and cleaner experience, but for me it became too much of a hassle, especially when doing more than 150km per week. I did however only have one chain, so rotating of multiple chains will probably work better. 

 

I also found that with the hot waxing, I could hear the drivetrain getting more noisy after about 130km, so that would mean I have to wax the chain prior and after every weekend. I became too lazy, so the drivetrain was noisy for longer periods compared to using smoove. 

 

Expected Waxed Chain Longevity & Common Issues

In dry conditions, you should be getting closer to 500 km of use on a mountain bike from a properly waxed chain. If you're experiencing significantly lower mileage, there are a few likely causes:

1. Chain Not Thoroughly Cleaned Before Waxing
   The most common reason for reduced performance is an improperly cleaned chain prior to waxing. It's essential that the chain is not only clean on the outside but also completely degreased internally. The internal surfaces of the chain – inside the rollers and between the pins and plates – are the most critical areas for wax penetration. Any residual factory grease or lubricant can prevent proper wax adhesion, severely compromising longevity.

2. Inferior Wax Product
   Not all chain waxes are created equal. Some budget or low-performance waxes may lack the film strength, lubricity, or durability needed for high-mileage use, especially in abrasive off-road conditions. For best results, use a high-quality wax designed specifically for bicycle drivetrains, ideally infused with a solid lubricant like tungsten disulfide .

3. Incorrect Waxing Technique
   Even with a clean chain and good wax, the process must be performed correctly. Here are key steps to ensure optimal waxing:

   • The chain must be completely dry before entering the wax pot. Any residual moisture will interfere with wax bonding.

   • Once submerged, agitate the chain thoroughly to dislodge trapped air bubbles and ensure full wax penetration into the chain internals.

   • Allow the chain to remain in the molten wax until it has reached the same temperature as the wax. This ensures full saturation.

   • When removing the chain, let it cool and set completely before installation. This allows the wax to form a durable film on and inside the chain.

If you're still unsure about your results or would like detailed guidance on cleaning, waxing, or product recommendations, feel free to reach out. I'm available via:

📞 082 491 0684
📧 shawn@mtbsouthafrica.co.za

Happy riding,
Shawn
MTB South Africa

[MTB SA]

How to Clean and Hot-Dip Your Bicycle Chain:  

 

[JoeMerida]

30 minutes ago, MTB SA said:

Expected Waxed Chain Longevity & Common Issues

In dry conditions, you should be getting closer to 500 km of use on a mountain bike from a properly waxed chain. If you're experiencing significantly lower mileage, there are a few likely causes:

1. Chain Not Thoroughly Cleaned Before Waxing
   The most common reason for reduced performance is an improperly cleaned chain prior to waxing. It's essential that the chain is not only clean on the outside but also completely degreased internally. The internal surfaces of the chain – inside the rollers and between the pins and plates – are the most critical areas for wax penetration. Any residual factory grease or lubricant can prevent proper wax adhesion, severely compromising longevity.

2. Inferior Wax Product
   Not all chain waxes are created equal. Some budget or low-performance waxes may lack the film strength, lubricity, or durability needed for high-mileage use, especially in abrasive off-road conditions. For best results, use a high-quality wax designed specifically for bicycle drivetrains, ideally infused with a solid lubricant like tungsten disulfide .

3. Incorrect Waxing Technique
   Even with a clean chain and good wax, the process must be performed correctly. Here are key steps to ensure optimal waxing:

   • The chain must be completely dry before entering the wax pot. Any residual moisture will interfere with wax bonding.

   • Once submerged, agitate the chain thoroughly to dislodge trapped air bubbles and ensure full wax penetration into the chain internals.

   • Allow the chain to remain in the molten wax until it has reached the same temperature as the wax. This ensures full saturation.

   • When removing the chain, let it cool and set completely before installation. This allows the wax to form a durable film on and inside the chain.

If you're still unsure about your results or would like detailed guidance on cleaning, waxing, or product recommendations, feel free to reach out. I'm available via:

📞 082 491 0684
📧 shawn@mtbsouthafrica.co.za

Happy riding,
Shawn
MTB South Africa

MTB Riders Wash their bikes Every Ride to Remove dust and or Mud.

[cadenceblur]

8 minutes ago, JoeMerida said:

MTB Riders Wash their bikes Every Ride to Remove dust and or Mud.

not understanding your point?

 

If that's the case, remove the chain if need be? 

[Dexter-morgan]

1 hour ago, JoeMerida said:

MTB Riders Wash their bikes Every Ride to Remove dust and or Mud.

BUT the wax is almost waterproof you need heat and proper solvent to remove the wax

[JoeMerida]

54 minutes ago, Dexter-morgan said:

BUT the wax is almost waterproof you need heat and proper solvent to remove the wax

I Guess I'd better Order some Today. Just in Case they run out of stock.

[love2fly]

Update: I've done 550km on my roadbike since waxing, and all very good n quiet.

[Michael S]

https://www.pinkbike.com/news/new-squirt-hot-wax.html

 

Squirt has entered the chat

[MongooseMan]

2 hours ago, Michael S said:

https://www.pinkbike.com/news/new-squirt-hot-wax.html

 

Squirt has entered the chat

Will be interesting to see price vs Silca

Also seems the recommended distance between rewaxing is much higher for Squirt.

[Michael S]

Yeah they seem to be pushing the immediate efficiency angle rather than the longer lasting one. 
I am more keen on longer lasting, looking to give the enduro wax a go. 

[JoeMerida]

3 hours ago, MongooseMan said:

Will be interesting to see price vs Silca

Also seems the recommended distance between rewaxing is much higher for Squirt.

I think Squirt is being more Realistic 👍

For Road Cycling that is.

If you ride a Muddy / Dusty MTB Track you have to wax every ride.

Edited September 3, 2025 by JoeMerida

[MongooseMan]

58 minutes ago, Michael S said:

Yeah they seem to be pushing the immediate efficiency angle rather than the longer lasting one. 
I am more keen on longer lasting, looking to give the enduro wax a go. 

3 minutes ago, JoeMerida said:

I think Squirt is being more Realistic 👍

Squirt recommends about 800-1000km, whereas Silca is 250-350miles (400-560km) (for dry road cycling)

So Squirt almost double as "long lasting"

[JoeMerida]

Squirt Performance Hot Wax is effective for at least 230 to 270 kilometres. In road racing conditions, that figure increases significantly to 800 to 1000 kilometres.

[W@nted]

With squirt wax, are you also advised to "top up" with normal squirt between immersive waxing? I see this is what Matt Beers is doing at the moment. 

 

In my opinion, squirt "normal" lube attracts a lot of gunk. Surely this is not what you would like to do to a waxed chain?

[JoeMerida]

21 hours ago, W@nted said:

With squirt wax, are you also advised to "top up" with normal squirt between immersive waxing? I see this is what Matt Beers is doing at the moment. 

 

In my opinion, squirt "normal" lube attracts a lot of gunk. Surely this is not what you would like to do to a waxed chain?

After Lubing always give the chain a wipe. No matter what lube you use. It will collect less dirt while you ride.