Now offering Chain Wax Service and Products!

Greetings!

Almost exactly 10 years ago I started selling LillyLube and it's been my go-to chain lube ever since. It's clean, lasts long, and has VERY low friction which helps reduce wear and increase pedaling efficiency. I will still be using it for almost all of the bikes in for service and recommending it for most people.

I've known about chain waxing for years and have many customers who swear by it. I've always resisted as I've been very happy with LillyLube. Well, now I"m a firm believer in chain waxing.

So why did I change my attitude towards it? Silca. They've perfected the degreasing, lubricant, and application. Of course, before going all-in on this technology I had to treat my chain with (to?) a wax application. My first ride with it I didn't really notice much difference as it takes about 30-45 minutes for the excess wax to wear off. However the second ride I was like "Shazam!". I could REALLY tell the difference (and I didn't have any complaints about my drivetrain beforehand).

Please keep reading to learn more about the process. All the products are available in-store and online, or you can have me do it next time you have your bike in for service. Although it might seem pricey at first, you won't need to lubricate your chain as often, and the reduced friction will also make your chain last longer.

Below are the steps I take to clean and wax your chain (however there are other options if you'd like to do it yourself - just keep reading).

I use Silca's Wax Melting System. It's pretty simple, but very well thought out. First, melt the wax to 75c. Heat to 125c if using the Strip Chip which lets you skip the next step but is more expensive.

You can also add an optional speed or endurance additive chip to the wax melt. The Speed Chip will reduce friction even further for more speed (for races, time trials, triathlons, mountain rides, etc). The Endurance Chip is perfect for multi-day rides like Ride Allegheny - you won't have to worry about re-lubing at the end of the day.

While the wax is melting, prep the chain. The chain must stripped of any other lubricants and debris. I use Silca's Ultimate Chain Stripper and Wax Prep. Not only does it completely strip the chain, it actually preps it for the wax application.

Once the wax (and additives, if used) have liquified, the chain is dunked into it and agitated.

Then, the chain is hung to dry for 15 minutes. The chain is now hardened to the chain. Break the chain free of excess wax by articulating each link, then install on bike.

It takes about 30 - 45 minutes of riding to break in the new chain with your other drivetrain components and for excess wax to fly off.

The new wax on your chain should last between 200 - 250 miles (450 - 550 miles with Endurance Chip).

Once you start hearing your chain chatter around the above mileages, simply top off using Silca's Super Secret Chain Coating then let dry 12 hours before riding.

Don't want to go all-in with buying the chain stripper or Super Secret Lube in a large quantity or go through the process mentioned above (or pay me or someone else to do it)?

You can buy a Starter Pack to get going.

Again, I will continue to use LillyLube in the shop and on most bikes in for service, however I think that this is the best solution for many - it costs less in the long run, as you apply it less and your chain will last longer.

Don't want to go with wax but still want minimal friction? Silca's Synergetic Wet Lube is one of the fastest lubes there is. Have an E-Bike and want your chain to last longer? Try their Synerg-E E-Bike Lube.

When I started JRABS in 2009 I came up with "Providing Bicyclists with the Greatest Mechanical Advantage". I do everything I can to help make your ride more enjoyable and efficient. Please don't hesitate to reach out with any questions. You can call, text, write, or stop by.

Thanks!

Travis Evans