When to lube a new chain

[Sterad]

When you fit a new chain, when do you need to start lubricating it, or do you lube it from the beginning? The chain is already pre greased out the box. And what is the best lubs for maximum chain life? Waxes or just plain Q20? 

[Gillie]

From the beginning and you can use rock'nroll lube... Q20 is abrasive if I am not mistaken...

[Sandro]

Don't use Q20. Speak to your LBS, they'll help you.

[AndreZA]

That grease that is on there is not lube it just there to protect it from rusting while stored. Decrease it before you install it and then lube it.

[Bike Mob]

Aggree with Mamps... clean that goop off first, then lube.

[Sterad]

Ok thanks for the help buds, thought you only had to start lubing after a couple of km's.

 

Would this apply to the more expensive chains as well, just bought a kmc x9sl chain(hollow pins) Is the factory grease no good?

 

What is the white lightening lube like, any good?

[AndreZA]

you do not need grease on your chain but lube that can penetrate between the rollers and pins. Get an oil based lube so that it does just that and not just sit on the outside of the rollers. Try Motorex Dry Lube. It might say "dry" on it but it is very runny.

[Jules]

I'd disagree with 'Para.

 

 

 

In my experience chains come prelubed with a very thick oil. This oil provides the smoothest, quietest chain performance you are likely to experience.

 

 

 

Unfortunately, it is liable to get dirty quickly and, if you're a mountainbiker, it'll go dry after a few rides. Then you'll need to clean the chain and re-lube.

 

 

 

Which lube you use after the original has become dirty or worn off is a topic of much lengthy debate. However, most agree that it's a good idea to clean and lube your chain regularly and the area of the chain that needs lubing is the inside, not the outside. It is also common cause that Q20 is NOT a good chain lube.

[Mackie]

Do a search for "lube' on the hub, this subject has been flogged to death.

[Hermanus Cycles]

The oil on the chains out the box is no good for riding,remove it before fitting,then dose your chain with squirt,rock&roll or pedros.

wait till the lube dries before riding,else it all just m@*rs off.

 

 

[Hermanus Cycles]

Oh and Q20 is not good for any bike use.

It is made for skweaky hinges and rusty locks.

Always use cycle specific lubes.