Our customers often ask us about the difference between chain lubes and chain waxes. Both products perform the same function of reducing wear on your drivetrain, but the most important difference between the two is how and when you apply each.
The best time to apply each product is at the end of a day’s ride, while your chain is warm, to allow the product to penetrate deep between the links and rollers. As the chain cools, the product will "set-up," keeping more of the product on the chain protecting your drivetrain instead of flinging off. You will find that by applying product in this manner, it will last longer and you will need to apply less frequently.
How you apply each product is also similar. Most lubes and waxes come in an aerosol can, making it easy to spray onto the chain links and rollers.
Chain lube is easy to apply any time, but will need “set-up" time to ensure that the lube penetrates deep into the links and O-rings. Not allowing enough set-up time will lead to the lube flinging off the chain (we’ve all seen the stripes on our rims) and not lubing much of anything. Chain lube can also attract dust and dirt, which clings to and grimes up the chain.
Chain wax also can be applied at any time. However, when it is applied correctly, it takes less set-up time before you can ride again. Not only is it less prone to fling-off, wax can withstand higher temperatures, protect the chain better, and is less prone to attracting dust and dirt. These features are significant benefits for Dual-Sport riding.
With either product, the optimal time to perform your chain maintenance procedure is when you park your bike at the end of a day's ride. First, clean the chain, wiping off all of the grime from the chain and sprockets. Then, adjust the tension on your chain as needed. Lastly, apply lube or wax to the chain, including between plates and around rollers. You’re done until next time!
