Is WD-40 Effective for Lubricating BMX Bike Chains?
Digging into the Myth of WD-40 as a BMX Chain Lubricant
Been there, done that! Let's face it, we've all been tempted to use WD-40 on our BMX chain at some point. But solve this mystery, my friend: WD-40 ain't the right tool for the job!
Forgot that chain lube wears off sooner than you think? Yep, it's tiny but mighty. A good lube means the difference between a bike that feels like a dream and one that brings you down hard. So let's crack open the can on this misconception.
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Straight off the factory line, your chain is pre-lubed, but that ain't gonna last forever. Time to get lubey!
WD-40 is like the "swiss-army knife" of household goods, and for good reason. But when it comes to taking care of your BMX, there are better options.
It's a common mistake to think, "If WD-40 can clean metal parts, it's just as good for the chain!" Well, not quite. WD-40 is a cleaner first, lubricant second, and that's kinda saying it's mediocre at both. It might give the illusion of being a lubricant, but trust me—it's only a temporary solution.
So, let's go over what WD-40 actually is for those who haven't wondered. It's a "water displacement" product, which means it's designed to push water off metal to prevent rust. You might have guessed it, it was originally developed for aerospace use!
But these days, it's more known as the go-to for anything squeaky or sticky. However, it's still pretty handy as a cleaner because it lifts dirt and grease off surfaces like a pro.
The question then arises: Why were we using WD-40 to clean our bikes when we didn't know we could use it as a cleaner to begin with?!
But despite the effectiveness of WD-40 as a cleaner, it's not a true lubricant. It might feel like it's working at first, but it's thin and doesn't provide long-lasting protection. After a ride or two, your chain will start feeling rough again.
WD-40: Chain Cleaner vs. Lubricant
So, here's the deal with WD-40: it's pretty decent for cleaning up your chain. Imagine it as a degreaser. When you've got layers of dirt, grime, and gunk built up, WD-40 can help strip that mess off in no time.
But—the catch comes in when you want to use it as a lubricant! WD-40 doesn't stick around like a regular lube does. It's too thin and lacks the viscosity to protect your chain over time. You spray it on, it might feel nice and fresh for a bit, but it won't last.
If, at this point, you're out of chain lube and wondering if WD-40 is better than nothing, I'd say it's a temporary solution. I've used it myself at times when I don't have any chain lube on hand. But for long-term maintenance, you better grab a dedicated chain lube.
Downsides of Using WD-40 as a BMX Chain Lubricant
To avoid the grit, let's cover the disadvantages of using WD-40 as a BMX chain lube.
1. Magnet for Dirt:
WD-40 leaves a residue on the chain, which actually attracts dirt like a magnet. That's why you should always wipe down your chain with a dry cloth after using WD-40. If you're riding in dusty conditions, trust me—your chain can pick up a whole lot of grit.
2. Lack of Protection:
WD-40 is too thin to provide the proper protection your chain needs. BMX riding puts some serious wear and tear on a chain, which WD-40 just can't handle. It'll wear off quickly, leaving your chain unprotected.
3. Water Repellent? Not So Much:
WD-40 isn't meant to repel water, so if you encounter wet conditions, forget about it! It washes off way too easily, leaving your chain unprotected and in need of a fresh lube.
The Proper Way to Clean & Lubricate a BMX Chain
If you're going to use WD-40 for the cleanup, here's how to do it right!
Step 1: Clean the Chain with WD-40
- Spray a light coat of WD-40 over the chain.
- Let it sit for a few minutes to break down the dirt and grime.
- Scrub the chain with an old toothbrush or chain brush to remove all the gunk.
- Wipe down the chain using a clean rag to remove any residue left behind.
Step 2: Apply the Right Lube
- Choose a lube designed for BMX chains, preferably a dry lube for riding conditions.
- Apply a small drop of lube to each link of the chain.
- Allow the lube to soak into the chain for a few minutes.
- Wipe off any excess lube using a clean rag.
When to Lubricate Your Chain
If you're an everyday rider, aim to re-lube your chain approximately once a week or every two weeks. But if you ride less frequently, you can go a few weeks or even a month between lubes. Just keep an eye on your chain; if it starts looking or feeling dry, it's time for another lube session.
TL;DR: Save your money and your chain when it comes to chain lubes—WD-40 ain't the answer!
Recommended Reading:
- Mystery Solved: Why is my BMX chain skipping?
- Crank it up: How tight should a BMX chain be?
- Snags on Your BMX Chain: Causes and Fixes
- Keep your BMX chain straight—Alignment Tips and Tricks
- Top Picks: The Best BMX Chains to Keep You Rolling Smooth
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Disclosure: Commissions may be earned from qualifying purchases made through the provided link(s).
Technology has brought us a variety of smart-home gadgets and devices, but when it comes to taking care of your BMX bike, there are better options. WD-40, though multi-purpose, isn't the right technology for cleaning and lubricating your chain effectively.
When searching for a reliable lubricant for your BMX chain, the best technology would be one specially designed for bicycle chains, ensuring longevity and performance. So, while WD-40 might seem appealing with its versatile applications, it's crucial to leave the chain lubrication task in the hands of dedicated gadgets and technology.
