How do you guys keep from getting chain lube all over your pants. I usually roll my pant up but forgot this morning in a rush.
by meshyf
How do you guys keep from getting chain lube all over your pants. I usually roll my pant up but forgot this morning in a rush.
by meshyf
16 Comments
By not forgetting to roll up my pants?
I have done all of the following at one time or another…
1. Tuck your pants into your socks
2. Use bicycle clips/straps
3. Wear a pair of knickers while cycling and change as soon as I get to work.
Sorry about the pants but they will never be stain free again.
Don’t wear any pants
I commute on a belt-drive bike.
Pull the chain off your bike and degrease it thoroughly. (Alternatively you could just start with a new chain if it’s time to replace it anyway.)
Then submerge it into a pan of hot wax for about ~15 minutes or so. Once it’s soaked in the hot wax for a while, fish it out with a bit of coat hanger and hang the chain to drip dry / cool over a pan. (install the coat hanger first, it makes life easier)
The wax will penetrate into the chain and provide long lasting lubrication that will not attract dirt. Even if you do end up touching the chain it’s no worse than touching a candle that’s been left outdoors.
You won’t get dirty, your chain will last longer and you won’t have to oil it anymore. You should re-wax it ~annually or every couple of years depending on how much you use the bike.
You should also take the opportunity to clean up your sprocket and gears. To remove any residual oil. They can also be waxed with the quality automotive or spray wax of your choice.
I got some reflective clips. Serves two purposes.
Started waxing my chain
I change into my work pants once I get to the office. I wear shorts, and leggings under them during the winter, on the bike.
A couple weeks ago, I took my drive chain apart and degreased it all, and waxed the chain. It’s phenomenal, and worth all the effort. The chain and drive train stay clean now.
Black pants and crank guard.
Only lube the rollers of the chain and wipe away the excess.
i use a Velcro strap around the pant leg on that side.
Switch from oiled chains to waxed chains. They leave zero black residue on hands and clothing when handling.
The mark of a true commuter.
[https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/392006723104](https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/392006723104) I use these.
I had the same beige khakis and the same stains once. Surprisingly, goo gone and some elbow grease *almost* removed the stains. They’re almost gone, but still faint, but it worked better than the washing machine I guess. Good luck.
Roll up your trouser.
Of course you’ll have to shave that leg if you do.
rubber bands around my ankle