Welcome to the Cyclist's Lesson, today we are not talking about speed and passion, not about climbing and sprinting, we are going to talk about a seemingly trivial but related to cycling safety - the right way to lubricate the chain. Yes, you heard it right, it's the little thing that turns silently under your feet.
Lubricating the chain will not only make your ride smoother, but it will also last longer, provided you avoid the common mistakes, of course. Relax, I'm going to dive into how to turn this seemingly simple metal string into a powerful companion on your cycling path.
1. The art of lubricating chains.
1) The choice of lubricants is dueling.
Choosing lubricants is like picking a winner in a beauty pageant, there are countless options, but there are always a few that stand out. Common lubrication brands on the market are Finish Line, MUC-OFF, WD-40, etc., each with its own unique formula and use case. For example, Finish Line's dry lubricants are suitable for dry environments, while Muc-off's wet lubricants perform better in rainy days. Choosing the right lubricant is like putting a sharp sword on your riding gear.
b) Techniques for applying lubricating oil.
Applying lube is not a casual task, it requires you to be like a delicate painter and get every stroke right. Make sure the chain is clean before applying, and then dot apply the lubricant to each roller, taking care not to overdo it so as not to attract dust. It's a game about patience and meticulousness, are you ready?
3) Frequency and timing of lubrication.
How often should the chain be lubricated? There is no standard answer to this question, it depends on how often you ride and the environment. In general, relubrication should be considered after every 200-300 km of cycling or after a rain wash. It's like giving your car regular maintenance, and it will reward you with smoother turns.
4) Maintenance and storage of lubricating oil.
Let's not forget that lubricants also have an expiration date. When storing, please keep away from high temperature and direct sunlight to avoid the degradation of lubricating oil performance. A good bottle of lube is like old red wine, which needs your careful care.
5) Identification and analysis of common errors.
When you're immersed in the joy of lubricating your chains, remember to avoid these common mistakes: avoid applying fresh oil directly to a dirty chain, and don't use too much lube to attract more dust. The right approach keeps the chain in tip-top shape, while the wrong approach can backfire.
Second, the science of chain lubrication.
a) Chemicals & Lubricants.
At the heart of a lubricant is its chemical formulation, how does it reduce metal-to-metal friction? The chemical additives contained in the lubricating oil can form a protective film that effectively repels moisture and dirt and reduces friction. It's like putting on a first-class raincoat for the chain, which not only avoids rust, but also allows it to dance freely in the rain.
b) Friction in physics.
Friction is an unavoidable natural phenomenon when an object is in motion. Lubricating oil reduces friction by forming a lubricating film on the metal surface, reducing the direct contact between the chain rollers and the inner wall of the chain. Imagine it's like gliding on ice, smooth and fast.
c) Power loss in mechanical principles.
If the chain friction is too high, it will lead to a loss of power, so that every force you pedal cannot be fully converted into forward momentum. With the right lubrication, you can get the most out of your pedals, like wearing a pair of lightweight running shoes in a marathon, allowing you to run farther with less effort.
Third, the story of chain lubrication.
I remember it was a sunny weekend, in the Fifth Ring Road of Beijing, and I agreed to ride to the Summer Palace with a few cycling friends. Almost the night before departure, I checked my car and suddenly noticed an unusual clicking sound from the chain. It reminds me of the last time I came back from a ride and I forgot about the lubrication of the chain. In desperation, I had no choice but to take out the spare lube and carefully apply it to each roller drop by drop.
The next day, when I rode along the boulevard with my friends, the smooth feeling made me feel like I was one with the wind. This experience made me realize that lubrication is as important as any maintenance. My little friend, a professional bicycle mechanic, also kept emphasizing along the way: regular lubrication is more important than any repair. With his simple words and professional knowledge, he tells us that to take care of every part is to take care of our own safety.
In this run, I felt not only the embrace of speed and wind, but also the respect for details and the insistence on safety. Lubricating a chain is a small thing, but it's the little things that make it safe and fun to ride. Every time the chain turns briskly on the hub, I am reminded of that lesson and remind myself to lubricate it regularly, because it is not only a maintenance of my car, but also a reflection of my own responsibility.