Best Bicycle Chain Lubes In 2022
You do not need to be an automobile-fanatic to know that bicycles, like all other vehicles, require regular maintenance to extend their lifespan, especially on the chains. It is also public knowledge that bike owners should lubricate the chain of their bikes to get it to perform at its best. However, knowing the type of lubricant to choose from can be overwhelming considering the vast number of bike chain lubes available on the market, with each one claiming to be the best. Stress not, as this review reveals the best bicycle chain lubes of the lot, with each product thoroughly tried and tested by reviewers. We can say with authority that at least one of them can meet your exact needs.
The Best Bicycle Chain Lube
1Finish Line DRY Teflon Bicycle Chain Lube
If you have heard that squeaking noise in your treasured cycle that is also accompanied by underperformance, you probably should be aware by now that your mountain bike needs lubing. Luckily, the manufacturers of this first product on our list have you covered. They have been in the business of producing quality chain lubricants for decades and the Finish Line DRY Teflon Bicycle Chain Lube, which is also our best choice, is no exception.
Not only is it considered as the best bicycle chain lube because of its extreme flexibility in usage, but it is also widely used by both mountain bikers and road cyclists alike. It is manufactured with the intent of taking care of all forms of bicycle chains and can also be used on the derailleur, shifters, cables, and brake pivot points. It comes in a range of sizes, therefore, the size of the bottle determines the price of the lube. The purpose is to make the lubricant affordable for all without breaking the bank.
Versatile usage
Doesn’t absorb dust
Dry lubricant
Durable effect
- BrandFinish Line
- ModelT00046601
- Weight4 ounces
Reduces friction when applied
The affordable price due to its difference in bottle sizes
Penetrates into chain deeply and with ease
Bigger bottles can be relatively expensive
It is not water resistant
More product needed to lube effectively
2DuPont Teflon Dry Self-Cleaning Bicycle Chain Lube
The most long-lasting lubricants are not simply cleaned with water, but rather, require chemical cleaning products. Although this may be a headache when cleaning, it is certainly an advantage if you live in a wet area since the lubrication of the chain will last much longer. If a long-lasting lubricant is what you are after, the DuPont Teflon Chain-Saver Dry Self-Cleaning Lubricant will certainly do the job. It is manufactured for bicycles chains and cables that are used mostly in wet environments or areas that are likely to be highly contaminated. Rest assured that with this lubricant, your bike will be free from dust and will refrain from absorbing all kinds of contaminants while on the road.
Anti-rust and corrosion
Dry Lubricant
Waterproof
Free from silicones
- BrandDuPont
- ModelCS0116601
- Weight2 pounds
Protects your bike against wear and tear since it contains molybdenum and Teflon fluoropolymer as its major components
Sticks to the chain when applied
Reduces the splattering of cables and prevents chain from stretching
Spraying can get untidy and profligate if care is not taking.
May take a longer time to dry.
Might be a bit too thick for some bicycle chains
3 Boeshield T-9 Bicycle Chain Lube
According to the manufacturer of this next lubricant which is Boeing Company, this chain lube is not only made for bicycle chains, but it can also be applied to calipers, pedal pivots, shaft cables among others. Whether your mountain bike is dirty, wet or dry, you can rely on the Boeshield T-9 to lubricate, deep clean and protect your chain from corrosion and rust. The good news is that, despite its benefits, this lube does not negatively affect other materials on your bike like the paint, plastic, rubber or the fiberglass.
Waterproof lubricant
Rust and corrosion preventive
Deep cleansing
Dual-condition usage; wet and dry
- BrandBoeshield
- Model122183
- Weight2.4 ounces
Can be applied to other automotive and types of equipment
Easy to apply or use
Keeps your chain moisturized and free from debris
Price is comparatively on the high
It is not easily available in shops
Relatively takes a longer time to penetrate
4Tri-Flow TF0021060 Superior Lubricant
This next lubricant is a multi-purpose oil which is common among bicycle users. It has been used to separate wedged parts and strengthen cables and lube chains. The Tri-Flow TF0021060 Superior Lubricant is capable of infiltrating and loosening parts of chains and other wheels due to its light viscosity. It comes in a drip bottle and it is also available in different sizes. The only downside of this lubricant is that its virtue is also its biggest flaw; the more oily the lubricant, the more prone it is to attract dirt, dirt and grime. Nonetheless, it does the job effectively.
Excellent multi purpose oil
Contains extraordinary additives which resist moisture and prevents rust
Presently most favorable lubrication under intense temperatures
Superior lubrication
- BrandTri-Flow
- ModelTF0021060
- Weight6.2 ounces
Reduces friction
Perfect for loosening rusted chains, nuts, and bolts
Deeply penetrates due to its light viscosity
Can lead to a dark greasy build up if it is used without a cleaning regime.
May not last long under grave downpour since it is a dry lube.
Likely to attract dirt
5ProGold ProLink Chain Lube
The manufacturer describes this next product as “ideal for anything that slides, rolls or squeaks,” and certainly your bicycle fits the description perfectly; hence the ProGold ProLink Chain Lube will be the ideal chain lubing solution. This lubricant comes in a suitable, refillable applicator and is convenient many types of equipment. It is capable of protecting your bicycle chains from rust all year long by lubing the chains within the shortest possible of time. Make sure you also check our guide to the best bike locks.
Prevents corrosion
Reduces metal friction
Thin lube which cleans effectively
Lubes chains within minutes
- BrandPro Gold Products
- ModelProGold
- Weight0.8 ounces
Oil neither becomes tacky nor accumulates
Convenient usage on bike chains, sporting types of equipment and other tools
Get rid of dirt and abrasives
Price is a little bit on the high
The utmost time needed when applying if you don’t want it to be untidy
Frequent re-application is needed if you cycle for longer miles
6Finish Line Wet Bicycle Chain Lube
This Finish Line Wet Lubricant has been in the business of delivering quality bike chain lubes for over a decade now. It has a stronger ability than most wet lubes on the market and although it is formulated with a high viscosity synthetic oil, the bottle is made from harmless, recyclable components and can be applied more often in both mucky and damply environments. It is also recommended for severe circumstances.
Contains Water-resistant polymers
High anti-corrosion features
Vital for rust protection
Provides maximum lubrication
- BrandFinish Line
- ModelC00040101
- Weight4 ounces
Highly waterproof
Cheaper price
Protection against corrosion and rust
Likely to attract dirt
It can be untidy in application
Finishes quickly
7Rock N Roll 135816 Gold Chain Lubricants
As the name suggests, the Rock N Roll Gold Chain Lubricant does not only lubricate your bike; it also cleans it up concurrently. It is a versatile lube for both mountain and road bikes and is popularly known for its smoothness and quietness on the chain. It provides an excellent chain performance by shifting dirt and particles much quicker than other lubes. Our handy guide to the best bike lights features more great products like this.
Universal usage lubricant
Dry lube
Cleans and lubricate at the same time
Sit well on the chain
- BrandROCK N ROLL IT!
- Model135816
- Weight1.6 ounces
Easy to apply
Prices are cheaper
Makes rusty chains look new after application
Regular re-application is needed
Oil needs to be mixed well before usage
Can be a bit messy during application
8Park Tool CL-1 Synthetic Blend Chain Lube Bottle
This next bicycle chain lube is considered as one of the best products from Park Tool; another leading brand in bicycle maintenance products. With a variety of oils, the Park Tool CL-1 Synthetic Blend Chain Lube Bottle works perfectly in parched and moist environments and does not tuft up in cold conditions. It is also suitable for cables, derailleur and brake pivots.
Perfect for dry and wet conditions
Has an enduring effect
Penetrates deeply into chains and other pivots
Relatively inexpensive
- BrandPark Tool
- Model132892
- Weight2.72 ounces
Protects against rust and corrosion
Removes moisture
Reduces friction
The tendency of attracting dirt
Extremely thick
Wears off quicker during heavy rainfall
9WD-40 Bike All-Conditions Lube
This next bike degreaser is manufactured specifically for all kinds of bicycles making it an essential maintenance product. When used on a bike chain, mountain and on-road bikers can ensure a high level of safety as well as increased bike performance. The WD-40 Bike All-Conditions Lube can also be used in a variety of situations and to prevent that creaking noise that comes as a result of friction and corrosion. With this lubricant in place, you will be able to ride your bike in confidence since it has undergone thorough testing to prove its quality. Find more great products like this by checking out our guide to the best bike phone mounts.
Applicable in all conditions being it dry or wet
It is reliable and very durable
Safe for all kinds of bicycles
Improves chain efficiency
- BrandWD-40 Bike
- Model390234
- Weight5.6 ounces
Provides a higher form of lubrication
Reduces chain corrosion
Fast and easy to use
Can be slightly cluttered during usage
Slightly costly
Somewhat too thick
10Bike Medicine Purple Extreme Performance Synthetic Chain Lubricant
The Bike Medicine Purple Extreme Performance Synthetic Chain Lubricant is a superior, artificial bicycle chain lubricant. It was initially made to meet an industry standard that as it was purposely manufactured for drive chain protection in mining situations. For this reason, it offers an extremely strong and protective film which is high-above the normal chain lubricant strength; therefore, making it capable of keeping metals from rusting under ruthless environment be it cold, wet or abrasive.
It also provides extraordinary protection for bicycle chains which regularly undergo extreme stress for efficient and smoother performance with less application like other lubricants on the market.
Comes in high film strength
Provides an advanced mileage
Comes with a money-back assurance as a backup if the lube does not meet your demands
Does not hurl off when applied thereby staying in place for a longer time.
- BrandBike Medicine
- ModelPE-4
- Weight4 ounces
Decreases drive train noise since it makes the chain run smoothly
Ability to work under intense weather conditions
Increases the lifespan of chains
Not easily available in shops and malls
Comes with a strong scent that can be overpowering.
Despite its benefits, the price is a little bit on the high
11Dumonde Tech Original Bicycle Chain Lubrication
The Dumonde Tech Original Bicycle Chain Lubrication has been around for a while now; it will not be a surprise to find it in the tool bag of skilled mechanics as it has been designed with the intent of working better in both extreme temperatures. It is more vicious than some of the lubes on the market and can be used not only on cables and pivots but also on seals. The lube is specifically designed to prevent damage on other parts of your bicycle. Don’t forget to also check our guide to the best bike pumps.
It is very ecological and environmentally responsive
Specifically designed to work in extreme conditions
Produces low friction effect
High viscosity
- BrandDumonde Tech
- Model0.8 ounces
Reasonable price
Easy to apply
Long-lasting effect
When used in excess, it can build-up
The propensity to attract dirt
Likely to be messy during application
Bicycle Chain Lube Buying Guide And FAQ
How We Chose Our Selection Of Bicycle Chain Lubes
Reviews - The abovementioned lubes were selected for review based not only of their performance but on customers' first-hand opinion of their usage of the products. Out of the many feedbacks offered, we enlisted the products with the best response; so be rest assured that this review is not just based on our skewed perception of the products but well-solicited feedback from customers of diverse demographics.
Price - In choosing the best bicycle chain lube to review, one of the key factors we considered was the cost of the product. The price of the chain lube must be such that it is affordable for all even those on a low budget. Ideally, the cost of the lube is mostly in line with the size of the bottle. The smaller bottles, the smaller the price. Most bottles are measured in ounces and range from $6-$18; therefore it is only reasonable that the price of the bigger bottles will be higher. If you need a small amount for your maintenance, it's best to opt for the most superior lube that meets your exact need.
Features To Look For In Bicycle Chain Lube
Chain Lube Types: Dry, Wet, Ceramic - One of the major things you must look out for when considering purchasing a lube is the type of chain and the condition of the bike you are riding in. The type of chain lube will determine whether it will be suitable for the circumstance in which you intend to use the product.
Dry Lubes as the name implies, are purposely meant for dry conditions thus, they are perfectly designed to be used during spring or summer. The lubricant is mostly made with a component that allows the lube to dry on the chain when applied and does not attract dirt once fully dried.
Wet lube is also enormously needed for wet weather being it rain or snow. It is mostly water resistant and can withstand puddles and ponds due to its oil-base component. However, since it mostly remains wet on the chain, it tends to attract dirt.
A ceramic lube, on the other hand, is deemed as a higher version of a dry lube. It mostly penetrates well and provides a good coat for your chain; it is also resistant to being washed away and is mostly expensive than the dry and wet lubes.
Applicator - The kind of applicator to use to lube your chain correlates with your choice of the lube. Some of these lubricants come in a drip bottle, while others in a spray bottle and others come with an applicator brush or pad. Although they mostly come as a component of the lube bottle, the likes of a brush or pad come separately. Using a drip bottle demands a considerable amount of time which can be time-consuming; the spray can get slightly messy when care is not taken; the brush or pad, on the other hand, demands a meticulous effort. Choose the applicator that works for you.
Re-application Time - The re-application time depends on the type of lube and how you ride your bicycle. Some lubes are such that, to get the effective results, you need to lube more often. Others are formulated in a way that re-application will be necessary mostly after six months or within a year. If you use your bicycle in a rigorous manner and under harsh conditions, it is only prudent to lube it more often to ensure its high performance, despite what the chain lube may suggest.