Smooth rides start here
OUT on the trail or weaving through city streets, the bicycle chain is the unsung hero of every ride.
Strip it away and the bike becomes little more than a fancy sculpture.
But give it some care and it will return the favour with smooth and efficient rides for years to come.
The trick here is to keep it clean after each adventure; whether a muddy off-road romp or a sweaty urban sprint, give the bike a quick rinse.
Focus on the chain; that is where the grime builds up.
Use a proper chain cleaner and a decent degreasing solution, as this matters when it comes to gunk-fighting power.
Applying dry lubricant to the chain after a clean-up.
A good chain brush will help scrub off oil, mud and whatever else the road throws at you.
The bristles snake between the links, hitting every greasy crevice.
For those who live for the details, there's a mechanical chain cleaner, a nifty device that clamps onto your chain.
Just crank the pedals and let the machine work its magic.
A humble old toothbrush does the job just fine if you're trying to watch your budget.
Once the muck is gone, let the chain dry out to be lubricated.
There are two types of lubricants: wax-based and oil-based.
Wax lube is cleaner. It sheds dirt naturally once it dries.
Oil lube, while effective, can turn your calves into a Jackson Pollock painting if you go overboard.
For the gearheads and meticulous riders, there's a growing ecosystem of chain-care products.
'You can get chain lubricants to complete care kits for between RM59 and RM499.
'The most basic lube should last you four to six months, depending on how often you ride,' said USJ Cycles Lifestyle Boutique's assistant manager, Muhammad Rusyduddin Rosli.
A clean, well-lubricated chain doesn't just run better – it lasts longer.
Muhammad Rusyduddin notes that chains typically need replacing every 2,000km, depending on terrain and usage.
A reputable chain can cost anywhere between RM35 and RM170, depending on the brand, material and the number of gears your drivetrain supports.
So next time, after your next ride, don't just lean the bike against the wall and call it a day.
Give the chain a little TLC.
It's a small habit that guarantees a big return, especially when you're halfway up a hill, the sun is setting and everything's working like clockwork.
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