Motorbike and bicycle chain cleaning: a simple routine

Old lube picks up grit and turns into a grinding paste. A regular clean keeps your drivetrain running smoothly and makes new lube work properly.

Choose a seal safe degreaser

Many motorbike chains use O ring or X ring seals to hold grease inside the links. Harsh solvents can damage them. No.04 Drivetrain and Chain Degreaser is formulated to cut grease without attacking those seals. Extreme suits mountain bikes and winter riding. Delicate is for carbon and anodised parts.

Motorbike chains

1. Put the bike on a paddock stand so the rear wheel turns freely. Engine off.
2. Place a cloth under the chain to protect the tyre and swingarm.
3. Spray the degreaser along the lower run and let it dwell.
4. Agitate with a soft brush. Our detailing brush set reaches between the plates.
5. Rotate the wheel by hand and repeat until the whole chain is clean.
6. Rinse gently. Avoid firing a pressure washer directly at the chain.
7. Dry fully, then apply fresh chain lube.

Bicycle drivetrains

Use the same routine on the chain, cassette and derailleurs. Spin the cranks backwards while brushing, and clean the jockey wheels where grime builds up.

Keep cloths separate

Use dirty jobs cloths for drivetrains only. Grease and grit do not belong anywhere near your paint or visor. For helmets, No.09 Glass and Visor Cleaner is safe on visors.

Kit for this job

• No.04 Drivetrain and Chain Degreaser
• Soft Detailing Brush Set of 3
• Wheel and Dirty Jobs Cloths 3 Pack

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