Chain Cleaning for Mountain Bikes

How does a chain cleaning tool work?

There are many types of chain cleaning tools around, they all look different but end up doing the same thing with some being more effective than others. The main thing is that you can clean your chain without having to remove it. The chain cleaner clips onto the chain and has lots of little brushes to clean the chain from all angles. Chain cleaner, solvent or detergent is put into the tool. Then you spin the crank and the chain is cleaned. The combination of the movement of the chain, the agitation, the brushes and cleaning liquid helps to dislodge dirt and rinse the chain at the same time.

This is one of the best inventions around that makes the bike wash exercise quicker and less painful. Keeping your chain clean will make it last longer, your gears will work better and sound better, and there is nothing better than a sparkly clean chain.

Chain Cleaning Tools

Find out how to do a decent bike wash and check out our Mountain Bike Maintenance and Repair Guide for the next step in maintaining your bike. Join our mailing list and we will let you know when we update this section.

Chain Cleaning Links

The ShellBroCo Bicycle Cleaning System - For those that like taking the chain off!
How to clean a chain - The park tool way