How to Oil Your Bike Chain
Bicycles are powered by pushing the foot pedals, which in turn drive the rear wheel via energy transfer from the front sprocket to the rear wheel sprocket by way of a chain. The chain "links" sit between the sprocket grooves and will eventually wear down the sprocket teeth if the chain isn't properly, and regularly, lubricated. Oiling a bicycle chain is a very simple part of maintenance and requires only oil and the ability to operate the pedals by hand while applying the oil to ensure the entire chain is coated.
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Things You'll Need
- Wooden block or cement brick
- Towel or cloth
- Medium-weight oil (Marvel Mystery Oil, 3-in-1, or other)
Instructions
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1
Place a wooden block, such as a railroad tie, or a cement block on a level portion of ground. Lay an old towel or a shop cloth over the block to prevent damage to the bottom of the bicycle.
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2
Set the bottom frame of the bicycle on top of the block so the rear wheel is at least one inch off of the ground.
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3
Fill a hand-pump oil can with medium-weight oil and begin turning the pedal closest to you with one hand so the rear wheel begins rotating. Rotate slowly.
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4
Apply a thin line of oil to the chain where it meets with the rear sprocket by gently squeezing on the oil can lever while the pedal is being turned slowly. Continue applying a narrow line of oil until the entire chain has been covered. Rotate the pedal an additional six to eight revolutions so the oil coats the entire chain and sprocket.
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Tips & Warnings
Lubrication of a bicycle chain depends upon how often the bicycle is used. If the bicycle is only operated up to 20 hours a month, then the chain should be lubricated once every two or three months. If the bicycle is used more than 20 hours a month, the chain should be given a light coat of oil once every two or three weeks.
References
- Photo Credit bicycle wheel image by Horticulture from Fotolia.com
