12.3 cleaning
Drivetrain Deep Clean (Monthly)
Drivetrain Deep Clean (Monthly). Step-by-step procedure for bike maintenance — tools, time, and what to watch out for.
Tools
- Standard workshop tools
Procedure
-
Remove the chain
(3.3 quick link or 3.4 break a link).
-
Soak the chain
in a sealed bottle of degreaser. Shake vigorously for a minute.
-
Drain the degreaser
, refill with fresh, repeat.
-
Final rinse with water
(if water-based degreaser) and shake dry.
-
Hang the chain
to dry completely (or blow with compressed air).
-
Meanwhile, scrub the cassette
off the wheel using a brush and degreaser.
-
Scrub the chainrings
— both sides of each ring.
-
Scrub the derailleur pulleys
— pay attention to the gunk that accumulates around the pulley centers.
-
Reinstall everything
and lube the chain (12.4).