• Cycling enthusiasts, bicycle mechanics, and anyone curious about bikes (or computers)? You're in the right place!

    Register for a free account and dive into the discussions.

    Our forum works with an AdBlocker, but if you’d like to support us, consider backing us on Patreon.

Should I remove the factory grease from a new chain?

Advert

BikeGremlin

Cycling Icon
Wheel Wizard
I got this question in the Bicycle chain wax PROS & CONS video's comment section - and it's a good one:

Hello, Gremlin. How are you doing? I hope you are well.Dear friend, I read your article about lubricants for use on bicycle chains on your website; this one: (Bicycle chain lubricants – explained).I am amazed by so much information, it is helping me a lot in my preventive maintenance of my bike.But I have a question and I would appreciate if you could help me with your opinion.Is it recommended or not to remove the lubricant/oil from new Shimano chains before the first use?and then apply a lubricant of our choice.
 
Solution
I just wipe a new chain from the outside using a rag, to prevent the factory grease from attracting much dirt. Apart from that "intervention," I like to leave the factory grease on the chain. It is durable and lubricates well. Once the chain needs re-lubing, I wipe it clean and use oil.

I did mention that as a tip at the end of the article: "How to lubricate a bicycle chain?"
This comment (by Jaroslav) and the follow-up reply in that article might also be interesting.

The only exception is when using wax (or some other really dry lubricant). In that case, it is best to start with a completely dry chain, cleaned of any grease or other lubricants.

Relja
I just wipe a new chain from the outside using a rag, to prevent the factory grease from attracting much dirt. Apart from that "intervention," I like to leave the factory grease on the chain. It is durable and lubricates well. Once the chain needs re-lubing, I wipe it clean and use oil.

I did mention that as a tip at the end of the article: "How to lubricate a bicycle chain?"
This comment (by Jaroslav) and the follow-up reply in that article might also be interesting.

The only exception is when using wax (or some other really dry lubricant). In that case, it is best to start with a completely dry chain, cleaned of any grease or other lubricants.

Relja
 
Solution

Support BikeGremlin

Help BikeGremlin stay online with a Patreon donation:

Advert
Back
Top Bottom