Learn how to clean and lubricate your ebike chain for optimal performance and longevity. Our guide provides easy steps and product recommendations.

Why Should You Clean and Lubricate Your Ebike Chain?

A clean and well-lubricated chain not only lasts longer but also enhances the performance of your ebike. Dirt and grime can accumulate on the chain, leading to increased wear and tear on the drivetrain components. This can result in costly repairs or replacements. A clean chain also ensures smoother and quieter rides, as a dirty chain can be noisy and cause clunky gear changes.

How Often Should You Clean Your Ebike Chain?

For optimal performance, we recommend giving your ebike chain a quick clean after every ride to remove surface-level dirt and dust. A deeper clean should be done every 10 rides, or more frequently if you ride in wet or muddy conditions.

Top Tips for Cleaning and Lubricating Your Ebike Chain

• Always lubricate the chain after cleaning.
• Use ebike-specific chain degreaser and lubricant, as they are specially formulated for these purposes.
• Avoid using oil, as it doesn't penetrate the links well and doesn't fully lubricate the chain.
• Use an ebike stand for easier access and to rotate the wheel freely.
• Protect your work area with rags or cardboard, and wear old clothes or an apron to avoid getting grease on them.
• Avoid getting degreaser on your brakes, as it can affect performance and cause squeaking. Cover the brakes or remove the wheels if necessary.

How to Clean an Ebike Chain

A Quick Clean Tools Needed: Clean, dry cloths, degreaser spray

1. Spray a cloth with degreaser and wrap it around the chain.
2. Pedal backward while holding the cloth lightly around the chain to clean the outside surfaces.
3. Use a clean part of the cloth to polish the chain by wrapping it around and rubbing it back and forth.
4. Lubricate the chain following the instructions below.

A Deep Clean - With a Chain Cleaning Tool Tools Needed: Clean, dry cloths, degreaser, chain cleaning tool, soapy water

1. Move the chain to the smallest cog.
2. Attach the chain cleaner filled with degreaser to the lower part of the chain.
3. Pedal backward slowly for at least 30 full revolutions.
4. Remove the chain cleaner and dispose of the solvent responsibly.
5. Rinse the chain cleaner and repeat the process until the degreaser comes out clean.
6. Fill the chain cleaner with soapy water and repeat the cleaning process.
7. Wipe the chain dry with a clean cloth and let it air dry before lubricating.

A Deep Clean - Without a Chain Cleaning Tool Tools Needed: Clean, dry cloths, degreaser, sealable container, chain breaker tool, water

1. Remove the chain from your ebike using a master link or chain breaker tool.
2. Place the chain in a container filled with degreaser and shake for a few minutes.
3. Let the chain soak for 20 minutes.
4. Remove the chain and wipe it clean with a cloth.
5. Rinse with water and reattach it to the ebike.
6. Let the chain air dry before lubricating.

How to Lubricate an Ebike Chain

Different lubricants are suited for different riding conditions. Use a heavy-duty lubricant for wet and muddy conditions and a dry lubricant for summer rides. For versatile riding conditions, consult your local ebike shop for the best option.

Method:

1. Apply a drop of lubricant to each link in the chain, ensuring it reaches between the plates and the pin inside.
2. Pedal backward slowly to distribute the lubricant evenly.
3. Let it sit for a few minutes.
4. Wipe off excess lubricant with a clean cloth.

Choosing a lube,degreaser, cleaning Tool for chain cleaning:

Lubricants

1. Finish Line Dry Teflon Bicycle Chain Lube

   • Type: Dry Lube
   • Best For: Dry and dusty conditions
   • Description: This lubricant goes on wet and dries to form a clean, dry film that won't attract dirt. It's ideal for road and off-road cyclists who ride in dry conditions.

2. Muc-Off Wet Lube

   • Type: Wet Lube
   • Best For: Wet and muddy conditions
   • Description: This heavy-duty lubricant is designed to perform in wet conditions, providing long-lasting lubrication and protection against corrosion.

3. Rock N Roll Gold Chain Lubricant

   • Type: All-Weather
   • Best For: Versatile riding conditions
   • Description: Known for its cleaning and lubricating properties, this lube is ideal for cyclists who ride in various conditions. It provides smooth shifting and a quiet ride.

Degreasers

1. Finish Line Citrus Degreaser

   • Description: A powerful biodegradable formula that removes grease, grime, and dirt from all drivetrain components. It's safe for use on plastic and rubber parts.

2. Muc-Off Bio Drivetrain Cleaner

   • Description: An eco-friendly, biodegradable degreaser that effectively cuts through oil, grease, and grime. It's safe for all bike components and finishes.

3. Park Tool CB-4 Bio ChainBrite

   • Description: A biodegradable, natural degreaser that can be used with a chain cleaning tool or applied directly to the chain. It's effective at breaking down and removing contaminants.

Cleaning Tool

• Park Tool CG-2.4 Chain Gang Cleaning System

  • Description: This comprehensive kit includes a chain scrubber, gear brush, and degreaser. The scrubber features rotating brushes that clean all sides of the chain, making it an efficient and thorough cleaning tool.

• Finish Line Pro Chain Cleaner

  • Description: Known for its ease of use and effectiveness, this chain cleaner has three rotating brushes that scrub the chain thoroughly. It also has a magnet to attract metal particles and prevent them from being redeposited on the chain.

• Muc-Off X-3 Dirty Chain Machine

  • Description: This tool features a unique dual-chamber design, with a separate degreaser reservoir and dirty fluid capture chamber. It has multiple brushes that ensure all sides of the chain are cleaned.