It's no surprise that your chain and drivetrain will typically be the dirtiest part of your bike. They're the nearest components to the wheels causing them to pick up the most grit from the different terrains you ride in. So, a clean and lubed drivetrain is the key to a smooth ride. Not to mention, regular maintenance can help avoid frequent (and costly!) replacements of your components.
Cleaning and Lubing Frequency
The frequency of cleaning and lubing chain will ultimately vary on how often you ride and the conditions you ride in. If you ride your ebike daily, then you might need to do weekly maintenance checks. If you're an occasional weekend rider, maintenance checks every 3 - 4 weeks will suffice. It's equally important to note the conditions you ride in; if you're riding your typical route on a rainy or muddy day, a good clean is most likely going to be needed the same day. If you were to ride that same route on a clear day, you might not need that immediate cleaning.
What to Look For
Although you should be regularly inspecting the chain on your bike to ensure it is in its optimal condition, there are some key signs to check for if you are concerned that your chain is not functioning properly. With the bike turned OFF, position your ebike in a bike stand or rest the bike on the kickstand. Use your hand to rotate the cranks backward, turning the drivetrain. While the chain is rotating, check for the following:
- Inspect each individual chain link for any dirt buildup
- Keep an eye on each chain link for any signs of rust or discoloration
- Be wary of tight links, meaning links that do not easily bend as they pass through the rear derailleur
Supplies Needed
When cleaning the chain, be extra cautious to keep the entire drivetrain dry at all times. You never want to use a wet or damp rag in this area, and avoid using soap as well. With that being said, you will need a dry cloth, a brush, a degreaser, and chain lubricant.
How to Clean and Lube
- Elevate the bike to work more freely around the drivetrain.
Note: A bicycle repair stand would be helpful, but not necessary. You can also flip your ebike upside down so the wheels are upright and free to work with. If working with your ebike flipped upside down, be wary of your ebike display, handlebar controls, and any additional accessories placed on your handlebar; Adjust them accordingly or temporarily remove them to avoid any damage while in the upside down position. - For a chain that does not have a lot of built-up grime, apply bio degreaser to your dry rag. Grab a hold of the chain with the rag and spin the crank arms a few times. Enough to pull the chain through your rag a couple of times, leaving the grime on the rag.
Note: If your chain does have a significant amount of built-up grime, a chain cleaning device and/or cleaning solution can be very helpful. - You might as well clean your cassette while you're at it! To remove dirt and grime off of the cogs, apply bio degreaser to a brush. Spin the crank arms to rotate the cogs, and scrub each gear. A toothbrush can also be a great scrub.
- If there is still built-up grime in the cassette, use the rag to wipe away the remaining dirt. Don't forget to wipe in between the gears.
- Allow the degreaser to dry before lubing the chain, wipe excess degreaser/ grim off with a towel as you work.
- While spinning the crank arms, slowly and evenly apply drops of chain lube onto the chain rollers and pins, making sure each link is coated.
- Note: When lubing, especially if using a spray lubricant, do not overspray or over-lube your chain as this could contaminate both your rotor and brake pads.
- Wipe off any excess lubricant by holding your rag against the chain and spinning the crank arms manually. You do not need to grip the chain with your rag for this step. You are complete!
Different chain oils can be selected by the conditions in which you will be riding in. The specific oil will be designated for dry or wet conditions and you can purchase accordingly.