LUBES & GREASES

There are loads of different maintenance products out there – here’s what to use where and when

Wet lube

Wet lube is designed for wet and dirty riding conditions. Formulated to repel water and provide a protective coating for the chain, it reduces friction and assists gear shifting. It’s applied wet and stays saturated, meaning you need to wipe o the excess before riding. Despite its longlasting formula, it’s worth regularly cleaning your chain and reapplying, because winter conditions can be harsh on your bike’s drivetrain.

Dry lube & wax lube

Both these lubes go on wet but then dry on the chain to create a protective coating. Dry lube is designed for dry, dusty conditions, so doesn’t o er the same protection against water and slop as wet or wax lube. Wax lube is more rudimentary and works in all weather/trail conditions. It leaves a coating that doesn’t attract dirt and dust, but needs reapplying more frequently.

Grease

Grease is used all over the bike, on the bearings (headset, bottom bracket, etc), on bolt threads (unless threadlock is required instead) and at the seatpost/seat tube junction. It stops these areas from sticking and gives a waterproof barrier to protect them from dirt and slop. Greases include ingredients such as Teflon, silicone and ceramic particles, all with the aim of making the coating stay in place and prevent water ingress for longer.

Carbon paste

Carbon fibre is lightweight and strong, but is more impact-resistant in certain directions (planes) than others. Consequently, it doesn’t react well to overtightening, particularly of stem bolts and seatpost clamps. Carbon assembly paste/ grease contains particles that add friction as well as providing a protective barrier like regular grease. This added grip means you can tighten bolts to the recommended torque setting without any fear of parts slipping.