Why You Should Wax Your Chain!!
If you are like most triathletes and cyclists, you probably have a dirty chain that occasionally gives you a chain tattoo on your calf. You may try out different types of lubes, and your drivetrain makes a lot of noise, which is a telltale sign of inefficiency.
I was like this for 12+ years, but a couple years ago I finally switched over to waxing all of my chains. It is honestly pretty easy to set up and start doing on a regular basis. The difference is truly night and day, and here are a few of the benefits to using wax on all of your chains.
1) Improved Efficiency: Waxing reduces friction between the chain links and drivetrain components, providing a smoother and more efficient pedaling experience. Unlike oil-based lubes, wax doesn’t attract dirt and grime, which can slow you down. The low-friction wax surface helps maximize power transfer, which is especially beneficial for long rides and races. Over time, this improved efficiency leads to less wear on your drivetrain, saving energy and money on replacements.
2) Cleaner Chain: Wax repels dirt, dust, and grime far better than traditional lubricants. Oils and grease-based lubes tend to attract debris, turning your chain into a magnet for gunk that quickly builds up and affects performance. With waxing, your chain stays cleaner for longer, meaning you won’t need to clean your drivetrain as often. This results in not only a more aesthetically pleasing chain but also smoother gear shifts and reduced wear on the components.
3) Longer Lifespan: A waxed chain sees less wear and tear compared to those using conventional lubes. By minimizing friction between the chain and cassette, wax reduces the rate at which these parts deteriorate. This extends the lifespan of your chain, chainrings, and cassette, helping you save money by avoiding frequent part replacements. Over time, the cost savings of waxing far outweigh the initial effort of applying wax.
4) Less Maintenance: Wax lasts much longer than oil-based lubricants, reducing the frequency with which you need to reapply. This translates into fewer maintenance sessions, giving you more time to ride and less time spent cleaning and re-lubing your drivetrain. With traditional lubes, regular cleaning and reapplication are necessary, especially after wet rides, but wax maintains its properties for longer periods in both dry and wet conditions.
5) Silent Ride: A waxed chain operates more quietly than a traditionally lubed one. Wax eliminates the grinding noise caused by dirt and friction, resulting in a near-silent drivetrain. This not only enhances the riding experience but also signals that your drivetrain is operating smoothly and efficiently. Over time, this can make your rides more enjoyable while reducing mechanical noise that indicates wear or strain.
6) No Greasy Mess: Waxing doesn’t leave the sticky, greasy residue that traditional lubricants do, meaning your bike stays cleaner and your hands won’t get messy during maintenance. With oil-based lubricants, touching your chain or accidentally brushing against it leaves a mess on your clothes and hands, but waxed chains stay dry and clean. This keeps your bike looking sharp and reduces the likelihood of grime buildup.
7) Better in Wet Conditions: Unlike oil-based lubes that can easily wash off in wet or muddy conditions, wax offers better water resistance. It stays on the chain longer in rainy weather, keeping the drivetrain smooth and rust-free. Wax’s resilience in wet conditions makes it ideal for cyclists who ride in diverse environments, reducing the need for constant reapplication and minimizing chain corrosion over time.