How to Lubricate Bicycle Chains

Dirty, unclean chains can reduce your bicycle's efficiency by up to 90 percent. All bicycles require some maintenance at some point, and one of those steps in caring for your bike is lubing the chain. This is an essential process in bicycle care, and it's important that you do it correctly. The simplest and most effective way to both clean and lube your chain is with a lubricant and a clean, white rag. With lubing, always remember that you must first clean your chain. Adding oil to a dirty chain will make it attract more dirt.

Things You'll Need

  • Chain lube
  • Clean, white rag
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Instructions

    • 1

      Wipe down your bike chain with a clean, white rag, getting all dirt and oil off the chain.

    • 2

      Set up your bicycle on a bike repair stand so that your back wheel can rotate freely in the air.

    • 3

      Slowly rotate the back wheel on your bicycle, and apply your lubricant to each chain link that passes. Try to get the lubricant between the plates of the chain, where it will be most effective.

    • 4

      Clean your bike chain of excess lubricant by turning your pedal backward and at the same time wiping the chain with a clean rag.