So you’re biking and you notice your chain is dirty. It’s not a big deal, right? All you need to do is wipe it off with some water or spray it down with a little bit of cleaner. Not so simple.
Brake cleaner can be quite harsh and damaging to bike chains. It is generally recommended not to use brake cleaner on bike chains as it can strip away the lubricant and protective coatings that keep the chain running smoothly.
However, if you are desperate and really need to clean your chain, it is possible to do so with brake cleaner. Just be sure to rinse the chain thoroughly afterwards and lubricate it well.
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The pros and cons of using brake cleaner on your bike chain
Do you know the feeling of riding a bike, then realizing your chain is dirty and needs to be cleaned? Well, if you don’t have any other way to clean it than by using brake cleaner on it, there are some pros and cons.
The pros: If you use brake cleaner on your bike chain, it will make the chain shinier and cleaner.
The cons: It will also take away the lubrication from the inside of your chain links which makes them more prone to rusting. And if enough time passes without lube or oil being applied to these links, they’ll start wearing down because they’re not protected anymore. That’s why we recommend cleaning your bike chain with a proper degreaser and then lubricating it afterwards.
Tips for keeping your bike chain clean and in good condition
It’s important to keep your bike chain clean and in good condition if you want it to last. Here are three tips for doing just that.
- Use a degreaser to remove all the gunk and grease from the chain.
- Rinse off the degreaser with water and dry the chain off completely before lubricating it.
- Apply a light coat of lubricant to the chain, making sure not to get any on the brakes or gears. Wipe off any excess.
By following these simple tips, you can extend the life of your bike chain and keep it running smoothly. There is really no need to use brake cleaner on your chain, as it can damage the seals. Use a good degreaser and rinse it off well.
Be sure to dry the chain completely before applying any lubricant. A light coat is all you need – too much will just attract dirt and grime. Wipe off any excess after applying the lubricant, and you’re good to go.
What is brake cleaner and what does it do
Brake cleaner is a solvent used to clean and degrease brake parts. It is also effective in removing built-up carbon deposits and other contaminants from the braking system.
Brake cleaner comes in a variety of formulations, each designed for specific applications. Some cleaners are aerosol cans, while others are liquid solvents that must be diluted with water before use. The most common type of brake cleaner is an aerosol can with a pressurized stream of solvent that is sprayed onto the target area.
Brake cleaner should not be used on painted surfaces, as it will damage the paint. It is also important to take care when using brake cleaner around electrical equipment, as the solvent can be flammable.
As already stated we also recommend that you refrain from cleaning your bike chain with brake cleaner as this will remove any lubrication on the chain potentially causing it to rust.
When using brake cleaner, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and take proper safety precautions.
Alternatives to using brake cleaner on your bike chain
Brake cleaner is a hazardous chemical used for cleaning and preserving brake discs on vehicles. It’s also been used by cyclists as an effective way of cleaning the chain on their bikes. Brake cleaner contains methyl alcohol, ethyl alcohol, naphtha and petroleum distillates which can be harmful if ingested or come into contact with your skin or eyes. That’s why you should always follow these guidelines when using it: avoid direct inhalation (it could irritate the lungs), use in a well-ventilated area (to prevent breathing fumes) and wear gloves (to protect hands).
We’re not recommending that you don’t ever use brake cleaner on your bike chain – if used correctly, it can be a quick and effective way of cleaning. However, there are some alternatives that you could use which don’t come with the same risks:
- WD-40: This is a popular choice for cyclists as it’s easy to find and relatively cheap. It’s also very effective at breaking down grime and lubricating the chain. However, it’s worth noting that WD-40 is a petroleum based product, so it will eventually attract more dirt and grime to the chain.
- Citrus degreaser: This is a natural alternative to brake cleaner which is made from citrus fruits. It’s non-toxic, biodegradable and gentle on the environment. However, it’s not as effective as brake cleaner at breaking down grime and dirt.
- Vinegar: White vinegar is another natural degreaser which can be used to clean your bike chain. It’s very cheap and easy to find, but like citrus degreaser, it’s not as effective as brake cleaner.
- Boiling water: This is a quick and easy way of cleaning your bike chain if you’re in a pinch. Simply remove the chain from the bike and place it in a pot of boiling water for a few minutes. The heat will break down the grease and grime, making it easier to clean. However, this method won’t remove all the dirt and grime from the chain, so you’ll still need to give it a good scrub.
- Baking soda: This is another cheap and easy way to clean your bike chain. Simply make a paste from baking soda and water, apply it to the chain and scrub with a brush. Again, this method won’t remove all the dirt and grime, but it’s a quick and easy way to clean in a pinch.
There are a variety of alternatives to using brake cleaner when cleaning your bike chain. Each has its own benefits and drawbacks, so it’s important to choose the one that best suits your needs. We recommend WD-40 as it’s easy to find and relatively cheap, but citrus degreaser is a good natural alternative. Whatever you choose, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and take proper safety precautions.
