Below are the questions we get asked most about waxed bicycle chains and our Re-Wax service. Can't find your question? Email us at info@waxcycle.nl.
What is a waxed bicycle chain?
A waxed chain is a chain that has been fully degreased, ultrasonically cleaned and then immersed in liquid paraffin wax. The wax works its way between the rollers and pins and sets there as a dry lubricating layer. Unlike oil, it leaves no sticky film on the outside, so hardly any sand or dust sticks to the chain.
Why does a waxed chain last longer?
Chain wear mainly happens because dirt mixes with oil and acts like grinding paste between the pins. Wax is dry and doesn't bind dirt, so most of that abrasive effect disappears. In independent tests, a waxed chain lasts up to roughly three times as long as an oiled chain under the same conditions.
How many watts does wax save me?
Depending on the treatment, you save 1 to 7 watts compared with an average wet chain oil. Our Speed treatment is the fastest but has the shortest range; Endurance is slower but lasts the longest. At WaxCycle, each treatment lists the saving and range that go with it.
How many kilometres does a waxed chain last before it needs redoing?
That depends on the treatment and the weather. Standard lasts about 500 km dry and 300 km wet, Speed about 200 km dry and 100 km wet, and Endurance about 1,000 km dry and 600 km wet. Rain, mud and lots of climbing shorten this range.
How do I know my chain needs re-waxing?
The clearest sign is noise. As long as the chain runs whisper-quiet, there's still enough wax in it. Once you can hear it or it starts to feel dry, it's time. Keep riding it and the chain runs metal on metal, which actually speeds up wear.
Can I fit a waxed chain myself?
Yes. All you need is a pair of quick link pliers and a quick link. The chain arrives vacuum-packed and ready to fit: nothing needs degreasing, cleaning or lubing. Cut it to the right length, click the quick link shut and ride the first ten minutes easy to bed it in.
Why does a new waxed chain feel a bit stiff at first?
When you fit it, the wax still sits as a stiff layer between the links. Over the first few kilometres that layer breaks up and the wax spreads out. Allow about 5 minutes of bedding in for Speed, 10 minutes for Standard and 20 minutes for Endurance. After that, the chain is noticeably quieter.
Can I put oil on a waxed chain?
No. Oil sticks to the wax, attracts dirt and undoes the benefit of waxing. On top of that, the chain then has to be fully degreased before it can be waxed again. Better to ride it until the wax is used up and then have it treated again.
What happens if I ride in the rain?
Rain washes wax out faster than dry weather, so the range roughly halves. The chain itself isn't damaged. Rinse it with water after a wet ride, let it dry and keep riding until you can hear it.
How does the WaxCycle Re-Wax service work?
You order the Re-Wax service in our shop and send in your chain, using our shipping pack if you like. We degrease it, give it an ultrasonic clean, check it for wear, wax it again with Silca Secret Blend and send it back vacuum-packed. You get your own chain back, not a different one.
How long does a Re-Wax treatment take?
We work in small batches. Allow a few working days in the workshop, plus shipping both ways. Don't want to be without your bike? Buy a second chain and swap them over: while one is with us, you ride on the other.
Which wax do you use?
Silca Secret Chain Blend Hot Wax, the same wax used in the pro peloton. It's a paraffin base with additives that reduce friction even further.
Which chains can you wax?
All common bicycle chains from 9- to 13-speed, from Shimano, SRAM, KMC and Campagnolo. Chains joined with a connecting pin instead of a quick link are fine too, but you'll need a new connecting pin when you fit it.
Is waxing worth it for gravel, MTB or bikepacking?
That's exactly where it pays off. In dusty and muddy conditions the difference from oil is biggest, because that's where an oiled chain picks up the most dirt. For long distances we recommend the Endurance treatment because of its longer range.
Can I do it myself?
You can. You'll need an ultrasonic cleaner, a slow cooker, wax and a well-ventilated space, plus about two hours per treatment. The kit pays for itself if you do several bikes or several chains a month. If that's not you, having it done is cheaper than buying the equipment.
Do you ship abroad?
Yes. We ship within Europe and to a number of countries outside it. Rates and delivery times are listed with each product. Above a certain order value, shipping is free.