Why not use WD-40?

[Batbike]

I know NOT to use WD-40 on my bike but don't know why. Can someone tell me? Thanks!

[makbike]

Watch this.

http://bicycletutor.com/no-wd40-bike-chain/

It removes the existing lubricants which increases the friction between the chain and the chainrings/cassette.

[Eden]

I've also heard that it tends to attract and hold onto more grit?

[cattygrrl]

Ain't WD-40 mostly mineral spirits? That's a solvent, not a lubricant.

Not in my chains...

[roadfix]

I use it to degrease my drivetrain.

[OakLeaf]

I don't use it on the b/c at all.

It's most excellent for degreasing a m/c drivetrain and removing all that gunky built-up chain lube on the inside of the sprocket cover and the swingarm. And cleaning up small parts, like cleaning grease off bushings, spacers, etc. during maintenance. W-D and Scotch-Brite are great for cleaning threadlocker off fastener threads, cleaning dead gasket gunk off engine mating surfaces, etc.

Also for removing road tar from the body work (m/c and cage).

Spraying on exposed metal on the m/c (pump sprayer, and being careful to avoid brakes and tires of course) before extended storage as a corrosion preventative.

But not on the bicycle

[DebW]

I use WD-40 as a cleaning solvent when I'm repacking a hub. I spray it on the cones and bearings, then wipe them dry. Spray it inside the empty hubshell, and wipe dry. Also spray it on a rag and wipe the frame with it to remove stubborn gunk.

[Grog]

My main concern is that it can't be cleaned out of one's chain entirely after being used for cleaning. So I go the slow, hard way when cleaning. And use bike chain oil for lubricating.

[roadfix]

My main concern is that it can't be cleaned out of one's chain entirely after being used for cleaning. So I go the slow, hard way when cleaning. And use bike chain oil for lubricating.

Maybe so, but the chain will wear out under normal wear naturally than from prolonged and direct use of WD-40.

[RolliePollie]

I use WD-40 to de-gunk my chain, then I try to wipe as much of it off as I can, then I use Tri-Flow lubre and wipe that off too. My chain never seems to be squeaky clean, but it's held up for almost 3,000 miles now so the WD-40 must not be too bad. I must admit though...the real reason I use it is because I love how it smells! What a horrible thing to admit.

[roadfix]

I must admit though...the real reason I use it is because I love how it smells! What a horrible thing to admit.

There's nothing wrong with that.

[Di bear]

WD-40 is toxic and you'd be better off to NOT use it at all.

MSDS Sheet

It is a solvent, so it's an "anti-lubricant." Your chain won't appreciate that.

I use Citrus Degreaser and then lube up with a wet lube. I used to use White Lightning, but that consists of solid components that don't dissolve, so effective lubrication does not take place and the chain wears more quickly. Pedro's Ice Wax is a good dry lube, but it wears away quickly, so it's not beneficial to those who do long rides.

One of the biggest problems with chain lubrication is that people over lube. They put a lot on and leave it. What you should do is put on an adequate amount - and place it on the inside of the chain. I like to spin the cranks a few times and let it settle for about 15 minutes. Then, use a dry rag, spend some time your bike, and wipe the excess lube off. The outside of the chain isn't what needs lubrication - it's the inner parts. This will keep grime and dirt from building up so quickly.

[OakLeaf]

Read the labels on those "citrus degreasers," though. Most of them are based on mineral spirits, too, with just a little citrus oil so people think they're getting something safe. Citra-Solv is pure citrus oil and surfactants, expensive but it's the real thing.

ETA: another good investment for the garage is a box of disposable nitrile gloves. You can actually re-use them 10-20 times, it's just the "disposable" ones are thinner and, therefore, easier to wear. Keep 'em on any time you're working with solvents, engine oil, etc.

[Di bear]

I love those things!!! I keep nitrile gloves in both bathrooms. Last time I cleaned up my bike, there was 2.5 feet of snow on the ground and it was below freezing. I threw the bike in laundry room shower, opened the window and the door, put on the gloves, and had at it. I prefer good ventilation for anything with fumes. (I had "asthma" and "allergies" for 3 years, even though tests proved I wasn't allergic to anything, and changing food and cleaning products got rid of the asthma - been asthma free for about five months, now.)

[madscot13]

I actully liked White Lightening in Minnesota. Granted I didn't ride much in the rain, but it was good and did not gunk up to fast. T9 Boeshield, I think that is the one I have, gunked up too fast. In DC, I appreciate it more.