Hello! As a commuter, in a rain heavy country I am facing the trouble of how to keep my pants clean on the way to work, in the most practical way.
My current setup:
50/34 Tiagra 5x110BCD Hollowtech crank, 68mm BB, 11-36 11 speed casette and chain
Options?
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Chain Wax – gets washed off too fast in rain and takes long time to maintain. I have it on my road bike, but I want something more convenient for my gravel bike.
-
SKS Chainblade. But it supports only 48t chainring max and requires a crankset with a chainguard.
https://www.sks-germany.com/en/Products/Chainguards/CHAINBLADE.htm?a=article&ProdNr=101&p=1023
So what crankset/chainring with chainguard options are there?
- Shimano CUES FC-U4010, but this one has a Q factor of 180. Maybe an issue? And requires a new BB and most likely a GRX deraileur.
https://www.bike-discount.de/en/shimano-cues-fc-u4010-9/10-speed-crank-46/30-with-chain-guard
- Get the FC-T6010 chainring, and some sub-compact crank and put it on?
https://www.starbike.com/en/shimano-deore-fc-t6010-chainring-for-chainguard-ring-48t-al/
I am feeling pretty stuck here. Thank you!
by lakotamm
3 Comments
Wet weather lube and routine cleaning is the way. Have you considered a pair of lightweight over pants or a cuff on your right leg to protect from grease? I have mixed feelings about wax in the wet, but something like silica’s drip wax top up may keep you going! I personally wouldn’t go so far as swapping components, that gets pricey quick, and that’s money you could put into new pants 🙂
Use a gaiter over the bottom of your pants.
I would think your best solution is some waterproof over pants for rainy conditions. Some even have waterproof shoe covers that stow away into the pant leg to keep your feet dry. This way your pants underneath stay clean and dry.