Chains that are properly lubricated last longer, shift better, don’t prematurely wear other parts and are quieter. Use proper bike lube, do not use WD40. WD40 is good for penetrating rust, or displacing water, but not for lubing your bike. Modern bike lubes are fairly light and contain Teflon or silicon. A little lube goes a long way. Too much lube attracts dirt and grit to your chain, which will also cause premature to your bike’s drivetrain. Too much lube will also find its way to your legs, clothes, wheel rims or brake pads.

There are many brands of chain lube to choose from, but there are two basic types: wet lube and dry lube. The clue is in the name. Wet lube is used when riding in the wet and mud, but during our long, hot summers it will attract dust and dirt. During those sunny days a dry lube will work exceedingly well, and your chain will be lovely and clean, but it will wash off during a rainstorm.

To apply your lube, put a tiny drop on each roller of the chain. If you have an aerosol make sure you use the long, thin, plastic tube to direct the lube to where it needs to be. When you have done all the rollers on all the links, grab yourself a clean rag, pedal backwards and wipe off the excess.

There are other places to lubricate if you love your bike, but again, they only need a drop. The pivot points on your derailleurs and your brakes (not hydraulic ones) will also benefit. Keep the lube away from your brake pads and wheels rims.

If your brakes squeak DO NOT OIL THE PADS!