Hi Kathy -



Do you have a favorite chain lube that you use for Cyclocross and muddy conditions?





Bicycle chain lube can improve shifting, reduce noise and increase the life of the chain by preventing corrosion. I do have a favorite chain lube for cyclocross (among mtb and road racing) but everyone will have different ideas on which is the best. For really wet conditions I love the Dumonde Tech Original Formula because it repels mud like a dream and for dry and dusty conditions I love the Dumonde Tech Lite Formula because the dust doesn’t stick to the chain. But if you just go in to any reputable bike shop and get whatever lube they have for the conditions you will be riding in, that will be ample.



It is amazing how important using the right chain lube can be in certain conditions and you want to make sure you are using the right lube for the right conditions otherwise things can get interesting. Lube can be a lot of money per ounce but the bottle will last you forever if you do things right and don’t over lube. Here are the steps for lubing your chain:



1. Clean and dry your chain.



2. Place bike in an area that can get dirty or simply lay down some rags under the chain.



3. Either place the bike up against something where the pedals can turn freely OR pinch the bikes rear tire in between your legs to hold it up.



4. Use your bike lube and apply it to the part of the chain that touches the gears as you simultaneously spin the pedal backwards with your other hand.



5. Apply sparingly. Once you have applied a thin coating to the entire chain (one rotation through), stop lubing.



6. In order to wipe of the excess off get a rag and grab the OUTER parts of the chain gently with the rag while spinning the pedal backwards with your other hand until the outer surface of the chain appears dry.



There is no need to reapply until you begin to hear your chain. Sound, is the best indicator if you need to relube your chain.





Kathy Sherwin

Velo Bella – Kona Elite Cyclocross Team