Why should you use dry chain lubricant?
March 29, 2023
Nowadays, there are a wide variety of cleaning and maintenance supplies for bicycles, including various greases, chain lubricants, cleaning agents, and many products almost all have the same chemical composition.
As mountain bikes began to become popular in the 1980s, there was a serious shortage of products in an important technical area in this industry: efficient and high-performance chain lubricants. "Many people use engine oil, some people use edible oil, and some people use various methods such as hot wax immersion to lubricate the chain." Most products come from the hardware industry. The lubricating oil used at that time was particularly unsuitable for mountain bikes. "They leave a wet and sticky film that becomes contaminants and dirt, making the chain dirty.". What is a dry chain lubricant? First of all, dry lubricating oil from industrial use is very different from the dry chain lubricating oil for bicycles mentioned here, and cannot be used on bicycles. On the other hand, dry chain lubricating oil contains only a small amount of oil, as well as additives that dry it and form a "wax like film", as well as other corrosion prevention additives and solid additives that contribute to lubrication. These solids are typically mixtures of polytetrafluoroethylene (Teflon), synthetic ceramics (boron nitride), molybdenum, or graphite, which reduce friction between the metal surfaces of the chain. In particular, nanoscale ceramic boron nitride compounds have been shown to be more effective. (Similarly, you will find that synthetic ceramics are widely used in cooking utensils, automotive coatings, and so on.) In terms of the degree of dryness, the sequence of chain lubricants is usually as follows: waxiness → dryness → wetness.
Should I use dry chain lubricant? This is a good choice for mountain drivers and other off-road drivers. Riding in dusty, sandy environments is the original intention of its design, and it can cope with slightly humid environments. "Most cyclists will benefit from using dry bicycle chain lubricants, so if you are a commuter, or an all-terrain highway player, or a 'weekend warrior,' this is really a good choice." However, in some cases, wet chain lubricants are undoubtedly a better choice. First of all, it is much better in truly humid riding environments. In addition, it is more durable than dry lubricants and is suitable for long-distance enthusiasts and professional cyclists who ride 160 kilometers or more. Most professional road riders prefer to use wet lubricants because they are quieter and smoother. "If you are crossing a stream in extremely humid weather, or are going on a 100km road ride, and it is raining, or if you are a professional cyclist and your transmission system is under high pressure, then wet lubricants are definitely a better choice." The disadvantage is that wet chain lubricants can easily attract dirt. In professional sports, many drivers have their bikes cleaned by team mechanics every day, so they don't personally handle the problems of the oil chain. At the other extreme, riders want the transmission system to feel very good and don't mind adding it repeatedly. They should use waxy lubricants, which are oil free and dry to the touch. Just like hot wax soaked in your chain, dirt won't stick to the chain and won't be absorbed; "The disadvantage is that waxy chain lubricants do not perform well in wet weather and should be re oiled every 80 to 160 kilometers." How long does chain lubricant last? "Any type of lubricating oil should be added frequently. This is a simple and affordable way to extend the service life of your transmission system. When you hear the noise of the flywheel teeth and chains, they may have worn a lot." The service life of dry lubricating oil can generally reach 160 kilometers. Waxy chain lubricants should be refilled every 80 to 160 kilometers. Wet lubricants can last over 160 kilometers.
