e-bikes · Ebike · Ebikes Maintenance · Hovsco bikes · Mar 14, 2022

When to Clean and Lubricate the Chain of an Electric Bike

Regular, On-Bike Cleanings

Clean and lubricate your electric bike chain every 100–150 miles or after riding in rain, mud, or dust. On-bike cleanings involve wiping the chain with a degreaser and reapplying lube without removing it, keeping your drivetrain running smoothly and extending its lifespan.

Lift the rear wheel off the ground and stand to the side of your bike on a regular basis to check the entire chain. Slowly rotate the closest pedal to inspect individual chain links for dirt accumulation, rust, and tight links (links that don't bend easily as they pass through the rear derailleur). When riding, listen for squeaks to determine if lubrication is adequate. If you find either of these conditions, your chain needs at least a spot cleaning.

Here's how to do it while it's still on your bike:

Brush out the links with a firm brush (an old toothbrush also works).
Relubricate the links from time to time with a chain lubricant.
Wipe off excess lubricant with a clean, dry rag. Over-lubricating can actually attract new dirt.

For a more thorough cleaning, use a chain-cleaning tool. Attach it to your chain for a quick, deep cleaning.

Occasional Off-Bike Cleanings

Perform a deep, off-bike chain cleaning every few months or after heavy use. Remove the chain if possible, soak it in a degreaser, scrub it thoroughly, dry it, and re-lubricate before reinstalling. This helps eliminate grime buildup and ensures peak performance.

Use a chain-removal tool to remove your chain every few months (more often for mountain bikes). To remove built-up grime that brushing cannot remove, scrub it well and thoroughly immerse it in a chain solvent. Soak the chain until most of the dirt has been removed from the links and bushings. Use a clean rag to dry the chain. Ensure that the solvent has completely evaporated, then relubricate and reinstall the chain.

A Word on Lubricants

Use a bike-specific lubricant suited to your riding conditions—wet lubes for rainy or muddy environments, and dry lubes for dusty trails. Avoid household oils or WD-40, as they attract dirt or lack proper protection. Proper lubrication reduces wear and improves chain efficiency.

Chain lubricants have two key properties. They should:

Reduce dirt accumulation, because dirt accelerates wear.
They should be durable, since lack of lubricant also accelerates chain wear.

Durability is less of an issue, since you can and should lubricate your chain frequently. Specific bicycle chain lubricants are superior to non-bicycle-specific oils. Generally, they contain Teflon® and are designed to repel dirt and water.

Use a cleaner and lubricant designed for bike drivetrains. WD-40 is not meant to be used as a lubricant on your bike (it is a cleaner).