Lewis Weekly Use an outdoor faucet connected to a hose. Do not try to fill the bucket by peeing into it. Actually 5 minutes is fairly impressive for a medium bucket.
i can't stress it enough how much this channel has helped me get started, i've just purchased my first road bike, absolutely loving it, and i was worries about cleaning it, didn't know what to use, the clerks at the bike stores are so rude and not helpful at all, they always just try to sell you the most expensive this and that. This video gave me so much more confidence in cleaning my bike, thanks a lot.
I know many are sceptical about the WD-40 idea but it is important to consider how frequently you clean and lube. If, like Simon, you clean and lube after every ride, then WD-40 should work for you. WD-40 is a highly volatile lube, which means it evaporates quickly compared to a traditional heavier chain oil. Reapplying WD-40 after every ride avoids this issue. If however you will be using your bike for prolonged periods between washing, such as a commuting bike that will do short journeys all week long and be left in the open at work all day, I would look for a heavier chain oil. In my experience the biggest killers of the drivetrain are dry running and prolonged dirty running. A regime of ride, clean and lube avoids both. If you don't have time to do a full wash down (like Simon in this video) try to at least give your chain and rings a blast of WD-40, a wipe down with a cloth then reapply lube; I find an old tea towel perfect. The other advantage of a combined solvent/lube is that you are not worrying about compatibility of the solvent and lube or any need to remove the solvent after cleaning.
right.this channel is epic for its video but for its comments too.As a french, i do appreciate british humour and british flegm.it works on every subject.
I've cleaned my bike like that since I was 15 year old and I still have the same bike, a Chesini, although upgraded from 5 speed Campagnolo mech to take 10 speed Campagnolo now (20 gears), at the age of 49 it is still great to ride. WD40 and cleanliness have kept it tip top! So your cleaning method has been proven to work over 34 years! The bike is like new even if I am not :-)
Wd40 can be used for anything. I swear that I used it to clean my stove, clean and lube my bike, clean my hands, clean my guns, and even used it as a deodorant.
So true. I actually used it once to remove trodden-in chewing gum from fabric. Removed the gum without a trace in seconds. All that was left to do was wash the fabric with a bit of dishwashing liquid to get the grease off. In case you wonder why I didn't just put it in the laundry: it was a big rucksack, not a piece of clothing.
I'm a supporter; I love this idea!!! Thank you!! The simplicity and cost effectiveness are truly wonderful. I've biked for years and never knew I was to wash the chain. Frightening right. Yes. I bought the WD 40 Bike Degreaser and the WD 40 Bike Lube and I got busy on my years old dirty chain. I sprayed, yes sprayed, that filthy chain and used a scrub brush on it, three times - and much to my dismay, I could see the silver color of everything again. I thought chains were to be black. lol. I can't believe I'm admitting this, but it's true. There were chunks of dirt and grease that dropped out of the jockey wheels. I am so excited that I will join the group in having a shiny clean chain!! Thank you for this simplistic approach (not having to take chain off or use scary chemicals) which I was comfortable enough to do, being that I'm afraid of all those mechanical parts.
Just for information, if never mind, grease absorbe all dust and dirts,so dust turn to be like a soft file and dirt combination with grease or oil turn to corrosive semi liquid, so could be very harmful even could intrupt the mechanism over all
Absolutely an amazing chain cleaner wd40 is. I’ve been using it for over 25 yrs of road bike riding and NEVER had even one issue. I DO however use a regular chain lubricant after cleaning with wd40.
You should use microfiber mitts or towels, and have a different one for wheels/tires. A sponge will hold the dirt and scratch anything it touches. Two-bucket method is a good idea too; One with soapy water, and another one with clean water. Soap -> Use on bike -> Rinse in clean water, repeat. Way less dirt in your mitt and soap.
the single greatest bike-wash video there is. i would have never imagined myself thinking and typing those words, but here we are. quick. cheap. applicable. awesome!
i thoguht i was the only one having this issue. I am new to road bikes and bought a trainer for Zwift. So I have to remove my rear wheel when setting up. Everytime I am scared that I can't put the rear wheel back on - which means i rarely ride outside...
I usually reserve WD40 as a lubricant for bikes that haven't been lubricated in several months and are on the verge of rusting (it works wonders and definitely doesn't damage the drivetrain contrary to most forums) - when cleaning my own bike (a project bike that's set me back thousands) I clean it with a sponge (maybe once a month certainly not after every ride) but I don't recommend using WD40 - not because it damages your drivetrain but because you can get a significantly smoother drivetrain with dedicated cycling lube which unsurprisingly doesn't cost much more than WD40 - though I use WD40 on the drivetrain to clear the gunk off it while washing the bike - and that works a charm.
I usually want to get off and enjoy the buzz. I find that 'coming down' to something boring is an anti-climax. Not trolling you, just horses for courses, I guess.
Great video GCN rocks. It cleans up even faster when you watch the RUclips at 1.5x speed. Don't rest the bike on the brake levers if you have disc brakes. The pads will close up and you'll be sorry.
I tried the wd40 degrease and lube method on my commuter (200 miles a week) and I'm really impressed. It's been very wet recently and I'm only reapplying weekly. I think water is probably for the best on a commute bike, as you get more road crap on/in the bike so it makes sense to rinse the road salt and stuff out. You need to be on top of the greasing situation anyway.
I do about 150 miles per week all year-round as a London based commuter. My pro-tip is let the mud and gunk dry overnight then brush it off in the morning, then do a proper clean and lubrication job at the weekend.
I've been using it pretty much after every ride and the chain and gears still run really smoothly, first 1000km done on this bike and still going strong, I'll probably grease up the bearings sometime next spring but apart from that the main downside is that I can't live with looking at a dirty chain again. Still get some shocked expression when I explain what I use but then tell them GCN does it and they're like 'Oh'.
For someone who hates cleaning chores (like me) this is perfect! I am going to incorporate theis routine into my commute after work now. Looking forward to having a clean bike every morning!
Thank you! Have showed this vid to kids and wife. Finally proving that my 20 years of using WD40 for everything on my and the family's bikes is not crazy.
David Mallon Fish Oil is NOT an ingredient in WD-40. This is another urban legend that has been around for a long time. WD-40's main ingredients, according to its U.S. Material Safety Data Sheet* information, are: · *51% Stoddard solvent* (i.e., mineral spirits: primarily hexane, somewhat similar to kerosene) · *25% Liquefied petroleum gas* (presumably as a propellant; carbon dioxide is now used instead to reduce WD-40's considerable flammability) · *15+% Mineral oil* (light lubricating oil) · *10-% Inert ingredients* *Myth*: WD-40® contains fish oil. *Fact*: Consumers have told us over the years that they have caught some of the biggest fish ever after protecting their fish hooks and lures with *WD-40®*. We believe this legend came from folks assuming that the product must contain fish oil since it appears to attract fish. Sorry Charlie®, it just ain’t so. *WD-40* Company has taken steps to respect and conserve the environment, and encourages its users to do the same. While *WD-40®* can be used to help protect fishing equipment from rust and corrosion, *WD-40* Company does not recommend using *WD-40®* to attract fish. *P.S. This is from **wd40.com** themselves*
When I got back into road biking a few years ago, my first instinct was to use WD40 in exactly this way. So many people told me it was a bad idea, I stopped. I should have gone with my instincts, and from now on I am! Thanks Simon!
If you do that cleaning every single time you ride, WD40 is probably ok, though it's still not ideal as a lubricant. Also, he says that he's never had a problem, but we also don't know how many miles he gets out of his chains before he needs to replace them.
Yep - and as a pro he probably swaps bikes quite a lot. I know a few cyclists who swear by a quick spray of WD40 when they have ridden in wet conditions and their chain is wet.
I know lots of people who wear out their equipment prematurely by not taking proper care of it as well :) WD40 is great for getting things unstuck, and for removing grease from a chain (which might be not exactly what you want to do), but it's not a lubricant and when you're rubbing metal on metal without a lubricant you're wearing it out quicker.
Yeah, but chain wear is much less on a clean chain. Its when you have muck in between the surfaces, or even worse oxides from corrosion that real grinding takes place. If he is using a road bike then its going to stay cleaner than a hybrid/cyclocross/commuter I guess. Doing this *every* time he rides, and he might be OK.
This makes perfect sense. If I don’t clean my bike right after I ride, chances are it will be two or three weeks before it gets a cleaning. Quit going over might be painful right after a ride but the bike will probably be in better shape in the long run. I’m going to try the WD-40 trick which looks ideal.
I actually agree it's a great degreaser for the chain buy I think you're VERY brave to use WD40 any where near your brake callipers. Even if the slightest mist of residue hits the brake surfaces and you aren't stopping very fast.
This video encouraged me to clean my bike for the first time in weeks. I think I will start washing it after every ride. Also wondering why an ex pros bike is using chorus instead of record or super record?
Good work James, nice one. As for Chorus, Simon's last race bike had Super Record but this was his training bike which he kept as it works great. He's got a few bikes with Dura Ace too though so don't worry for him!
R.e Chorus vs Super Record. Real world difference is minimal in terms of weight and functionality (I have both). Cost difference is prohibitive both initial outlay and replacing things as they wear out.
I also hate driving a dirty bike, I feel this channel represents me because I find everything I love about cycling, so thank you a lot, and I love you guys.
I only started cleaning my bike chain this year (we live in Texas where it’s warm & dry most of the time …always kept the frame clean - especially my wife’s who has a white Trek. I have to admit, I just started cleaning and lubing my chain properly and the bike runs more quiet and I worry less. Good stuff!
Guys, spray a bit of WD-40 onto a clean cloth and use it to polish your bike. It looks great. I do it all the time after a thorough wash on my DH bike. If you do it just before a wet ride it helps prevent as much mud sticking too!
+MrWtfchicken i'd suggest a bike spray, like the muc-off multi purpose one, its pretty cheap and will protect the frame much more thand good old WD-40. i use the WD for hinges, not bikes. Its like buying the queen a bile of mud for chrsitmas
+MrWtfchicken Actually the only maintenance we will ever need is a huge bucket field with wd40 and then just dip the whole bike in the bucket before and after every ride :-)
Well, that part actually makes sense. You're gonna get dirty cleaning your bike, so you clean the bike before you take off your kit and shower. Notice he did change out of his nice white riding shoes first...
Its almost midnight here i am watching you tube videos on how to wash bikes. Went to the store, have all the stuff, still waiting on little green men to come out and clean my bike.
My wife learned early in our relationship that she had a greater chance of being left out in the rain than my bike. It has a prominent spot right in the dining room.
I cringed when I heard him say that. I have used WD-40 before and within a couple of days all I got was dry rusty parts. I think it's fine as a degreaser but definitely not a replacement for proper lube. It may work for him, but it certainly didn't work for me.
Guys, I have tried WD40 as degreaser and then as a lubricant and I've done this for two weeks consecutively. Dwele and Kaylin are right. It works amazingly well for the first 5 minutes of the ride after which it doesn't feel smooth. I'm sure it works for Simon because he has a sparkling clean drive train always. But if you don't have a Degreaser at hand you can definitely turn to WD40. Cheers.
The chemical composition of WD-40 makes it both a solvent and a lubricant, meaning it can be used for both purposes but the lube concentration is pretty low so one will need to check and re lube more often If don't use a proper chain lube. And don't ever wash your bike on grass leaving soapy water ever again and don't apply any kind of degreaser/lube on brakes :|
Here in Seattle, Washington, USA, they tell us to wash our cars on grass if we do it ourselves or at least be sure the water drains off into an unpaved area where it can be absorbed into the ground. the soapy, dirty water draining into streams and lakes is bad for the environment.
Glad I found your quickie bike-wash video! I may give it a go for once in my life. Never have I ever cleaned (or oil) my MTB in my 20 years of ownership (saved for a once-off maintenance and cleaning at a bike shop). Its a Kona with Deore, and it's still working fine!
Just gave it a go using your method a couple of hours ago; hosing down my Kona's derailleur, chain & crank with WD-40 and a brush for the 1st time in my life. Easy does it. The silvery shine of metal is in stark contrast to the black-brownish gunk the components were used to be covered in. And I'm excited to ride it soon, to see if it does indeed feel faster than before! :)
I had corrosion in my rear derailleur recently. The bicycle shop said it was because I've been cleaning with water after every ride (once a week). They're suggesting using just lubricant on the drivetrain and wiping it down. What do you guys think?
The problem is that the pads will also be attacked by the WD-40. Should be common sense to not apply lube to something that is supposed to brake, the pads.
I just tried that WD40 on my F12 Pinarello chain. Works a treat. Cleanest I've ever seen my chain. Sticking with Muck-off chain lube as the greaser though but thanks for the rec. Brilliant!!
Adam Garfield after wd40 i dry chain with a rag and give 10-15 min and then i aplly the lube. Usally i aplly the lube in the end of day. Lube must to "breath" before next ride(3hours minimum) for the formation of surface layer
I didn't clean my bike for probably over a year after I bought it, I used this technique and have to say it was useful information, I sprayed WD 40 on chain and cassette did what he said and it looks so much cleaner it looks almost brand new, however I did put 3 in 1 oil after as I commute to work on it and wanted to use a heavier lube.
Hello gcn! I was wondering, when you spray so vigorously on the derailurs and calipers isn't there a risk of getting it on the brakesurfaces and therefore ruin them?
Brake Calipers have metal springs in them that perform better if kept rust free. WD-40 reacts on metal and does no harm to plastic or fibre. Spray it on to find out.
thanks man wd 40 is a good for all things product. it keeps water away effectively,which prevents it from getting very sticky or absorb dust and sand when its cooler outside or getting older on a surface.To actually use it to get rid of the old ,dirty grease is a great hack.
Just wanted to check in: The other day my ride mate had a puncture at his backwheel ... well ... we remembered your tip on resting the bike on the handlebar ... made it really easy to change the tube while being literaly on a road inbetween fields ...
Simon, love this video. Love that you give really practical methods to cleaning the bike. WD-40 for both, wow. I have to try that. I would love to know what you would recommend for cleaning bikes in areas of the world that experience snow and salt. I live in Canada and ride 365 and any tips I'd be really appreciative. Love GCN keep up the good work.
hi i'm quite new to road bikes and bike cleaning in general, thanks for making this vid but i do i have a question. Between after washing off the soapy water and then applying lubricant to the chain, how do you dry the chain ? I've heard about products that are supposedly used to spray onto the chain to get rid of water. What method do you use?
I like to clean the drivetrain first because I find all of the gunk and grease from the chain gets everywhere (i.e. All over the frame). Whenever I clean it last, I just end up re-cleaning the rest of the bike. So After I get my drivetrain as clean as possible I then move on to everything else mentioned in the video. Anyway that's my two cents, great video none the less keep it up!
Hey. The wd 40 tricks works. I have been doing it for my motorcycle chain and skyrocket since 2006. No issues whatsoever. I am with you in that one brother. See no reason to change lube now with a bicycle.
I dont know why bike shops say wd40 is bad for lubricating your bike when it is also a lubricant to begin with. do you think they say this to sell the more expensive bike lube products they have in stock?
I love the video (althought I woundn't dare to take my bike apart like that. would probably never manage to put it back together). I don't have any space for washing my bike though. I live in a flat and my building has no open areas (beside the corridors) and goes directly into the main street. Any alternatives to keep a bike clean without the water/washing mess?
+Jamille Vicente You could buy one of those inflatable kids pools, a work stand and clean your bike in the inflatable pool, so the shit from the bike does not go all over the floor.
Unfortunately I cant! Thought about that too, but the entrance goes directly to a main pedestrian street :) so I can't be washing the bike there. But I've manage to do it in my living room by setting some plastic underneath the bike and mopping up the mess after
Thank you for this video. Very useful idea and will help me to maintain the condition of my bike. I had stopped using WD40 or similar due to what I was told by a bike shop after previously using it without any previous issues.
My local Bike shop does clinics on such things every month. Their top mechanic showed us how he has been cleaning his 7 year old bike after every ride.(thousands of miles). It takes him about 4 minutes. HE NEVER USES WATER. He sprays a light cleaning solution on a fiber cloth and wipes it down. No rinsing needed.
No spray for cleaning, just use damp/wet towels etc. Use underbedboxes to collect liquids (if you can put them below your bikestand (if you have one)). For extra ground protection you can use plastic tarp (the tickness used for tents). When spraying decreaser and such do it above the underbedboxes. Else put some paper behind the direction you are spraying. But, you can also clean your bike on the street...
Hey guys, I am a total newbie in cycling. I just bought, as per a friend advice, a Felt F85 bike (with whom my wife has been jealous with. .) with this shimano Tiagra gear. I have been struggling a lot. Changing gears, using the special shoes, understanding the basics of the sport. I am Brazilian but i live in France, in the country side. I bought the bike to be able to travel alone with the bike, discover the country and go to the city (driving cars is not my thing...). So let's say I go to the village to buy some bread (10 km). Do I need to clean the bike?!?
+Mark Keavin Yes. I've been using it for 15 years to degrease, but typically not for final lube. I degrease with it, rinse, then dry with a rag and use specific chain lube. After seeing this recommendation, I may try it for the final to see how it does. WD40 for degreaser has always worked better than an actual degreasing product.
Just seen this and can't believe how easily you pop out the rear wheel, WITH the skewer. Maybe you should do a video on tips and tricks on how to do these sorts of things, pack a bike box etc. I'm astonished as I always make a hash of it!
Extra lazy tip, which i just did. When washing the bike off just fill your water bottle with water and squirt it down. None of that bucket filling or hose connecting business required
A tip for your tip given to me by a professional car valeter. Use 2 buckets of water, one with clear water one with soap. Soap the paintwork then rinse the sponge in the clean water, then more soap for the next part of the bike. That way you get rid of any grit on the sponge and don't damage your bikes paintwork. And leave the tyres until last.
Yep, it took me over an hour to replicate this!! VERY good tips though in fairness to Simon. I followed the steps, and I think the sequence makes a pile of sense. Though it honestly I think does take longer than '5 minutes', I really don't mind that label, as had I not watched this video and followed Simon's order, it would have taken me 2 or 3 hours. Annnnnnnnnnnnd....I just might not bother!!! So thanks Simon and GCN.
I've been using Muc-off in a Park Tool chain cleaner for 5 years and got degreaser recently and it works much better than the chain tool. I use a gear clean brush and Mobi pressure washer to rinse it off and you can see the black rinsing off. I've wasted so much time over the years doing 3-4 cleans every time in the chain tool.
Well done, Simon. Great to see a quick way to clean the bike. Loved the uproar you caused also. You could almost hear the howls of disbelief with your use of WD40, even in my household. I always say, if it works for you and causes no-one any harm, then do it. Promoted some very humorous comments also, like taking 5 minutes to fill up a bucket, and the wife using it as a personal lubricant. Most amusing. Keep up the good work!
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Took me an hour to do this 5 minute wash. 10/10 would spend 15 minutes removing the rear wheel again 👍🏻
Switch gears to the smallest cog before removing the rear wheel. Makes things way easier.
It takes me five minutes to fill up the bucket
Yeah! Same here!
Lewis Weekly Use an outdoor faucet connected to a hose. Do not try to fill the bucket by peeing into it. Actually 5 minutes is fairly impressive for a medium bucket.
Takes me about the same trying to get the rear "quick release" wheel off and out from the chain. Lol
You made my day sir
+Lewis Weekly You from africa or what?
My method is faster. Wile riding, I tell myself to clean my bike afterwards. Then when the ride is over, I have a beer instead.
Works every time !
Bro don't drink alcohol stay healthy and ride safe ✌️
@@adithyaar9122 its only a beer
hahah
ended up drinking also last week now im back here
Don't forget telling your bike you love it after cleaning, for extra shiny.
What if you told it you hate it ?
@@cat1800 -50 speed.
i can't stress it enough how much this channel has helped me get started, i've just purchased my first road bike, absolutely loving it, and i was worries about cleaning it, didn't know what to use, the clerks at the bike stores are so rude and not helpful at all, they always just try to sell you the most expensive this and that. This video gave me so much more confidence in cleaning my bike, thanks a lot.
I know many are sceptical about the WD-40 idea but it is important to consider how frequently you clean and lube. If, like Simon, you clean and lube after every ride, then WD-40 should work for you. WD-40 is a highly volatile lube, which means it evaporates quickly compared to a traditional heavier chain oil. Reapplying WD-40 after every ride avoids this issue. If however you will be using your bike for prolonged periods between washing, such as a commuting bike that will do short journeys all week long and be left in the open at work all day, I would look for a heavier chain oil. In my experience the biggest killers of the drivetrain are dry running and prolonged dirty running. A regime of ride, clean and lube avoids both. If you don't have time to do a full wash down (like Simon in this video) try to at least give your chain and rings a blast of WD-40, a wipe down with a cloth then reapply lube; I find an old tea towel perfect. The other advantage of a combined solvent/lube is that you are not worrying about compatibility of the solvent and lube or any need to remove the solvent after cleaning.
Thanks
Nice. I think you just saved me some headaches.
So what should I use to re grease my cassette and chain?
i got wd40 bike i am gonna hope it works as a regresser
It worked okay.
When you came here for the video but ended up staying for the comments 😂
right.this channel is epic for its video but for its comments too.As a french, i do appreciate british humour and british flegm.it works on every subject.
100%
lmao...exactly
Right
I've cleaned my bike like that since I was 15 year old and I still have the same bike, a Chesini, although upgraded from 5 speed Campagnolo mech to take 10 speed Campagnolo now (20 gears), at the age of 49 it is still great to ride. WD40 and cleanliness have kept it tip top! So your cleaning method has been proven to work over 34 years! The bike is like new even if I am not :-)
Tip top word again 😁
If Corona virus didn't kill you, God forbid, you are about 54, do you still want to keep that bike 🚲 😁
@@davoodkamali 😂 oh my god
How much do you clean it, after every ride?
200th thumbs up for this comment.
it takes me 10 mins to figure out how to remove the wheels
I don't even remove the wheels. Not sure how. When I get a flat, I carry the bike home and drive it to the shop the next day.
Even worse with disk brakes 😭😭
Danai Duma not really I have done both and disc brakes slide out while you have to loosen v brakes
@@langtangwang i guess for me it's putting them back in. I always somehow misalign them
I tried to remove my front tyre but it didn't work don't know why
This video has a Gordon Ramsey vibe... I can almost hear him say: just a touch of olive oil..
A good glug of olive oil
lmao why tf do i also hear gordon ramsey
I believe you meant to say “...a touch of olive ohl.”
And some sawlt and peppah
Olivole-in
i find if you dont clean it, some of the dirt falls off by itself eventually
Hahahahahahahaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!!! Awwwwwwwh God!!! Some of ye guys!!!!!!!!! Ye just crack me up!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Yeah it finds a nice equilibrium 👌
Good one LOOOLLL !!
yeah - THE method for the very lazy - like myself :-/
lmao
I generally eat a lot of french fries on my bike rides, so I just use a small handful of fries to grease up my chain. It's biodegradable.
I like your style 😂😎
Kevin Sherf Haha! You! I like you.
Clever dude
Kevin Sherf That is the best tip I have received in a long time lol!!!
better than wd40
Wd40 can be used for anything. I swear that I used it to clean my stove, clean and lube my bike, clean my hands, clean my guns, and even used it as a deodorant.
Jerald Konkel WD actually stands for Wicked deoderant! and the 40 is for the number of gobbies you get when you wear it
So true. I actually used it once to remove trodden-in chewing gum from fabric. Removed the gum without a trace in seconds. All that was left to do was wash the fabric with a bit of dishwashing liquid to get the grease off. In case you wonder why I didn't just put it in the laundry: it was a big rucksack, not a piece of clothing.
WD also means wonderfully delicious so i spray some on my desserts tastes like vanilla. Yummy! 🍰🍮
Yes, you forgot to mention that it's also an excellent insect killer
That's an explosively great idea
I'm a supporter; I love this idea!!! Thank you!! The simplicity and cost effectiveness are truly wonderful. I've biked for years and never knew I was to wash the chain. Frightening right. Yes. I bought the WD 40 Bike Degreaser and the WD 40 Bike Lube and I got busy on my years old dirty chain. I sprayed, yes sprayed, that filthy chain and used a scrub brush on it, three times - and much to my dismay, I could see the silver color of everything again. I thought chains were to be black. lol. I can't believe I'm admitting this, but it's true. There were chunks of dirt and grease that dropped out of the jockey wheels. I am so excited that I will join the group in having a shiny clean chain!! Thank you for this simplistic approach (not having to take chain off or use scary chemicals) which I was comfortable enough to do, being that I'm afraid of all those mechanical parts.
Just for information, if never mind, grease absorbe all dust and dirts,so dust turn to be like a soft file and dirt combination with grease or oil turn to corrosive semi liquid, so could be very harmful even could intrupt the mechanism over all
Wd is a scary chemical. Have no illusions.
@@David-vb8tg WD is fish oil. Not scary.
@@kathyleahy7314 no household chemicals are scary
Do you still ride the same wheels , same cogs & same chainrings??
Absolutely an amazing chain cleaner wd40 is. I’ve been using it for over 25 yrs of road bike riding and NEVER had even one issue. I DO however use a regular chain lubricant after cleaning with wd40.
After i clean my bike, it looks like your bike before your cleaning begins.
exactly what i was thinking
Akhil Pai 🤣
Lol
😆
😂😂😂👍
This five minute wash took me an hour... :)
Dann me too
Exactly!
5 minutes if you're skilled, have all the tools ready to go and make judicious use of video editing :p
You should use microfiber mitts or towels, and have a different one for wheels/tires. A sponge will hold the dirt and scratch anything it touches. Two-bucket method is a good idea too; One with soapy water, and another one with clean water. Soap -> Use on bike -> Rinse in clean water, repeat. Way less dirt in your mitt and soap.
the single greatest bike-wash video there is. i would have never imagined myself thinking and typing those words, but here we are.
quick. cheap. applicable. awesome!
tried this today. took me 30 mins to get the rear tire back on with the derailleur 🙈👏
Yeah, I've never found the trick for getting the rear wheel back on. Also my new bike has thru-axles so takes longer to remove and reinstall.
i thoguht i was the only one having this issue. I am new to road bikes and bought a trainer for Zwift. So I have to remove my rear wheel when setting up. Everytime I am scared that I can't put the rear wheel back on - which means i rarely ride outside...
Do it more often, you'll get the hang of it
I usually reserve WD40 as a lubricant for bikes that haven't been lubricated in several months and are on the verge of rusting (it works wonders and definitely doesn't damage the drivetrain contrary to most forums) - when cleaning my own bike (a project bike that's set me back thousands) I clean it with a sponge (maybe once a month certainly not after every ride) but I don't recommend using WD40 - not because it damages your drivetrain but because you can get a significantly smoother drivetrain with dedicated cycling lube which unsurprisingly doesn't cost much more than WD40 - though I use WD40 on the drivetrain to clear the gunk off it while washing the bike - and that works a charm.
I use WD40 all the time and my bike is still in tip top shape. Then again, I never spray WD40 on my bike.
Haha
+Rudy Ramirez It solved my problem, still not drying out.
+Rudy Ramirez it's in tip top shape cause you never took it out the box
what's tip top shape ?
tip top = excellent
cleaning my bike helps me to relax after a ride
John Kyon oh my gosh me too your not the only one
Pricefield Room for one more? :D
Don't forget to degrease the room when you're done.
@@jaystevens4013 😂
I usually want to get off and enjoy the buzz. I find that 'coming down' to something boring is an anti-climax. Not trolling you, just horses for courses, I guess.
This channel makes me happy! Cycling is a happy sport :)
Great video GCN rocks. It cleans up even faster when you watch the RUclips at 1.5x speed. Don't rest the bike on the brake levers if you have disc brakes. The pads will close up and you'll be sorry.
LOL, "after every ride"... never gonna happen. Not in my world. Twice a year, tops.
+chaiTV haha true, but I try to do this atleast once a week
Lmao
+MrRostit Yeah once a week sounds good, but every time?
I do it every ride.. the parts last much longer. if you only clean it twice a year...you proberly only ride 3-4 times year ;)
CyclingDane
I ride 4 times a week on average 20 Km each ride.
I tried the wd40 degrease and lube method on my commuter (200 miles a week) and I'm really impressed. It's been very wet recently and I'm only reapplying weekly. I think water is probably for the best on a commute bike, as you get more road crap on/in the bike so it makes sense to rinse the road salt and stuff out. You need to be on top of the greasing situation anyway.
I do about 150 miles per week all year-round as a London based commuter. My pro-tip is let the mud and gunk dry overnight then brush it off in the morning, then do a proper clean and lubrication job at the weekend.
Any tips on the type of lubricant?
@@quietatse as for london you should use wet lubricant
This 5 min. Procedure took me about 90 mins.
But its a very good guideline.
And oh my God it shines like new.
I put my 5 minute timer on but it ran out before i could finish, what should i do now?
Just spray the entire bike with WD40 and you should be fine
jmsta2011 Thanks, i did that and its squeaky clean now
+jmsta2011 😂
4 8 15 16 23 42
work faster
I've been using it pretty much after every ride and the chain and gears still run really smoothly, first 1000km done on this bike and still going strong, I'll probably grease up the bearings sometime next spring but apart from that the main downside is that I can't live with looking at a dirty chain again. Still get some shocked expression when I explain what I use but then tell them GCN does it and they're like 'Oh'.
For someone who hates cleaning chores (like me) this is perfect! I am going to incorporate theis routine into my commute after work now. Looking forward to having a clean bike every morning!
how did this work out for you?
@@natorpen-palmer7192RIP. His brakes just collapsed!
Did it in 2 hours :))
Didn't have proper degreaser and had a hard time removing dirt from chain and crankset.
Thank you! Have showed this vid to kids and wife. Finally proving that my 20 years of using WD40 for everything on my and the family's bikes is not crazy.
Perhaps the most legendary GCN video. Something about Si´s enthusiasm about WD-40 does it for me eversince i first saw this video when it came out.
Fun fact! WD-40 actually stands for Water displacement, and it was their 40th formula, and thats where we get the abbreviated name "WD-40" from
Excellent fact Peter.
Global Cycling Network You can also spray your fishing lures with WD40 and you'll catch more fish because they are attracted to the scent!
Lanning Kann
That's interesting for me but Global Cycling Network obviously doesn't fish as he's riding with Campagnolo, haha.
Lanning Kann That's because WD-40 is made with fish oil, a natural water displacer.
David Mallon
Fish Oil is NOT an ingredient in WD-40. This is another urban legend that has been around for a long time.
WD-40's main ingredients, according to its U.S. Material Safety Data Sheet* information, are:
· *51% Stoddard solvent* (i.e., mineral spirits: primarily hexane, somewhat similar to kerosene)
· *25% Liquefied petroleum gas* (presumably as a propellant; carbon dioxide is now used instead to reduce WD-40's considerable flammability)
· *15+% Mineral oil* (light lubricating oil)
· *10-% Inert ingredients*
*Myth*: WD-40® contains fish oil.
*Fact*: Consumers have told us over the years that they have caught some of the biggest fish ever after protecting their fish hooks and lures with *WD-40®*. We believe this legend came from folks assuming that the product must contain fish oil since it appears to attract fish. Sorry Charlie®, it just ain’t so.
*WD-40* Company has taken steps to respect and conserve the environment, and encourages its users to do the same. While *WD-40®* can be used to help protect fishing equipment from rust and corrosion, *WD-40* Company does not recommend using *WD-40®* to attract fish.
*P.S. This is from **wd40.com** themselves*
Gcn is my fav channel 🙏🙏🙏🙏
bike nut Thanks, very glad to hear it! Dan
OOOOOMMMMMMGGGGGG DN ACTUALLY SPOKE TO ME
bike nut How do you know? -Dan
?? Murica
When I got back into road biking a few years ago, my first instinct was to use WD40 in exactly this way. So many people told me it was a bad idea, I stopped.
I should have gone with my instincts, and from now on I am! Thanks Simon!
If you do that cleaning every single time you ride, WD40 is probably ok, though it's still not ideal as a lubricant. Also, he says that he's never had a problem, but we also don't know how many miles he gets out of his chains before he needs to replace them.
Yep - and as a pro he probably swaps bikes quite a lot.
I know a few cyclists who swear by a quick spray of WD40 when they have ridden in wet conditions and their chain is wet.
I know lots of people who wear out their equipment prematurely by not taking proper care of it as well :)
WD40 is great for getting things unstuck, and for removing grease from a chain (which might be not exactly what you want to do), but it's not a lubricant and when you're rubbing metal on metal without a lubricant you're wearing it out quicker.
Yeah, but chain wear is much less on a clean chain. Its when you have muck in between the surfaces, or even worse oxides from corrosion that real grinding takes place.
If he is using a road bike then its going to stay cleaner than a hybrid/cyclocross/commuter I guess. Doing this *every* time he rides, and he might be OK.
He might. But he's probably replacing that chain every 1000 miles, and you don't even have to clean it at all to get that kind of longevity :)
This makes perfect sense. If I don’t clean my bike right after I ride, chances are it will be two or three weeks before it gets a cleaning. Quit going over might be painful right after a ride but the bike will probably be in better shape in the long run. I’m going to try the WD-40 trick which looks ideal.
I love using W2-40, been doing it for years. Glad to know I am not the only one.
i'm so happy i found your channel!!
We're so happy to have you here Cato!
+Global Cycling Network *here
*that's what we said! ;-)
Naughty! ;)
I actually agree it's a great degreaser for the chain buy I think you're VERY brave to use WD40 any where near your brake callipers. Even if the slightest mist of residue hits the brake surfaces and you aren't stopping very fast.
it wears off ;) bahaha
This video encouraged me to clean my bike for the first time in weeks. I think I will start washing it after every ride. Also wondering why an ex pros bike is using chorus instead of record or super record?
Me too.
Good work James, nice one. As for Chorus, Simon's last race bike had Super Record but this was his training bike which he kept as it works great. He's got a few bikes with Dura Ace too though so don't worry for him!
Global Cycling Network What did you do about drying the bike, (wipe it down, compressed air, air dry)
R.e Chorus vs Super Record. Real world difference is minimal in terms of weight and functionality (I have both). Cost difference is prohibitive both initial outlay and replacing things as they wear out.
I also hate driving a dirty bike, I feel this channel represents me because I find everything I love about cycling, so thank you a lot, and I love you guys.
I only started cleaning my bike chain this year (we live in Texas where it’s warm & dry most of the time …always kept the frame clean - especially my wife’s who has a white Trek. I have to admit, I just started cleaning and lubing my chain properly and the bike runs more quiet and I worry less. Good stuff!
Love this video. I'm lazy when it comes to bike cleaning, so this 5 minute bike wash is perfect.
Guys, spray a bit of WD-40 onto a clean cloth and use it to polish your bike. It looks great. I do it all the time after a thorough wash on my DH bike. If you do it just before a wet ride it helps prevent as much mud sticking too!
MrWtfchicken thanks for the advice :) but isnt it quite annoying when you touch the bike and have oily hands? :D
+MrWtfchicken silicon spray works better!!
+MrWtfchicken i'd suggest a bike spray, like the muc-off multi purpose one, its pretty cheap and will protect the frame much more thand good old WD-40. i use the WD for hinges, not bikes. Its like buying the queen a bile of mud for chrsitmas
again, silicon spray is what they use in bike shops to give the showroom look...!!
+MrWtfchicken Actually the only maintenance we will ever need is a huge bucket field with wd40 and then just dip the whole bike in the bucket before and after every ride :-)
Is it important to wash your bike in proper cycling outfit? And don't forget the shoes.
A must.
Shave legs as well.
Well, that part actually makes sense. You're gonna get dirty cleaning your bike, so you clean the bike before you take off your kit and shower. Notice he did change out of his nice white riding shoes first...
@@TheChiliLime adds aero for a few millisecond time reduction
With helmet on,,, safety first!
Been using wd40 for almost 5 years now to maintain & lubing my bike and never had an issue with it. It’s truly the multipurpose spray.
Its almost midnight here i am watching you tube videos on how to wash bikes. Went to the store, have all the stuff, still waiting on little green men to come out and clean my bike.
Do you use WD-40 as deodorant too?
Made my day!
At least the hardcore ones probably ... yes :-/
If it gets rust, it needs.
Lool
lmfao. have a good day human
If you need a dirty bike for your next video, give me a call!
I find leaving it out in the rain to be most ideal
My wife learned early in our relationship that she had a greater chance of being left out in the rain than my bike. It has a prominent spot right in the dining room.
Bike "experts " winge about WD40 as said, but I'm using it in Canadian winter riding and it works. The 5 minute wash is great, done before I get cold!
I bought my first ever can of WD40 and I'll give it a try as a Degreaser & a Lubricant.
I trust Simon & GCN. :)
Thank you.
I cringed when I heard him say that. I have used WD-40 before and within a couple of days all I got was dry rusty parts. I think it's fine as a degreaser but definitely not a replacement for proper lube. It may work for him, but it certainly didn't work for me.
he said he washes his bike every other day so I'm guessing it works well that way
Guys,
I have tried WD40 as degreaser and then as a lubricant and I've done this for two weeks consecutively.
Dwele and Kaylin are right.
It works amazingly well for the first 5 minutes of the ride after which it doesn't feel smooth.
I'm sure it works for Simon because he has a sparkling clean drive train always.
But if you don't have a Degreaser at hand you can definitely turn to WD40.
Cheers.
Swapnil Rogye p
I love how Simon said, "feel free to complain ion the comment section below." LMAO!! I like Simon!
The chemical composition of WD-40 makes it both a solvent and a lubricant, meaning it can be used for both purposes but the lube concentration is pretty low so one will need to check and re lube more often If don't use a proper chain lube.
And don't ever wash your bike on grass leaving soapy water ever again and don't apply any kind of degreaser/lube on brakes :|
Waseem Zia I got the same thoughts
Here in Seattle, Washington, USA, they tell us to wash our cars on grass if we do it ourselves or at least be sure the water drains off into an unpaved area where it can be absorbed into the ground. the soapy, dirty water draining into streams and lakes is bad for the environment.
just here for the witty responses lmao!! thoroughly entertaining!!!
I use duct tape as both degreaser and lubricant. Works like magic! Very reliable stuff.
Glad I found your quickie bike-wash video! I may give it a go for once in my life. Never have I ever cleaned (or oil) my MTB in my 20 years of ownership (saved for a once-off maintenance and cleaning at a bike shop). Its a Kona with Deore, and it's still working fine!
Glad you liked the video!
Just gave it a go using your method a couple of hours ago; hosing down my Kona's derailleur, chain & crank with WD-40 and a brush for the 1st time in my life. Easy does it. The silvery shine of metal is in stark contrast to the black-brownish gunk the components were used to be covered in. And I'm excited to ride it soon, to see if it does indeed feel faster than before! :)
I had corrosion in my rear derailleur recently. The bicycle shop said it was because I've been cleaning with water after every ride (once a week). They're suggesting using just lubricant on the drivetrain and wiping it down. What do you guys think?
I was ok with the WD40 right up until you went and sprayed it on your brakes.
same
Brake Calipers have metal springs in them that perform better if kept rust free.
The problem is that the pads will also be attacked by the WD-40. Should be common sense to not apply lube to something that is supposed to brake, the pads.
Swapnil Rogye Yes, WD40 isn't the issue. How he applied it (via a casual spraying) is.
Nah the brakes are unimportant. If they don't work just dig your cleats into the road surface or leap off into the nearest bush :)
I use wd40 on my knees.
dang I wish that worked for mine...
I just tried that WD40 on my F12 Pinarello chain. Works a treat. Cleanest I've ever seen my chain. Sticking with Muck-off chain lube as the greaser though but thanks for the rec. Brilliant!!
I used wd 40 faithfully rust prevention for the cold rainy season as i lock my bike outside when its warm keeps the chain rolling great
WD-40 is good as a dergeaser in the bigining of bike wash and as displacer of water in the end. After it volatilizes i apply the chain lube
+Vlad Savin How long after the WD40 do you apploy the lube?
Adam Garfield after wd40 i dry chain with a rag and give 10-15 min and then i aplly the lube. Usally i aplly the lube in the end of day. Lube must to "breath" before next ride(3hours minimum) for the formation of surface layer
Boom I was wondering this for a while. Thanks.
Adam Garfield lately I've been using as degreaser a foam cleaner for car engine. It extrude all mud out. The rest wash bacome a more shorter
Not sure what the fuss is about; I use olive oil but not the extra virgin one and my bike is tip top.
+Ras ibra nice
Hugem M o
Ky jelly works..? Just wondering..
I only use virgin oil..
Do you lick your bike afterwards? ... or clean it with a piece of bread?
When I get a nice shiny black chainring tatoo on my calf, THEN it’s time to clean the bike! 😜🚴♂️
I didn't clean my bike for probably over a year after I bought it, I used this technique and have to say it was useful information, I sprayed WD 40 on chain and cassette did what he said and it looks so much cleaner it looks almost brand new, however I did put 3 in 1 oil after as I commute to work on it and wanted to use a heavier lube.
Great video and I've been using WD40 for 30 years on keeping motorcycles corrosion free and clean during he winter also.
Hello gcn!
I was wondering, when you spray so vigorously on the derailurs and calipers isn't there a risk of getting it on the brakesurfaces and therefore ruin them?
same question
Brake Calipers have metal springs in them that perform better if kept rust free.
WD-40 reacts on metal and does no harm to plastic or fibre.
Spray it on to find out.
My bike rides faster after I clean it.
True story.
i put lube on my disk brake pads, goes faster indeed.
@Deddy Corbuzier have you tried?
Yeah, mine got clean and stolen too.
wish i could drop a back wheel out like Simon...also I struggle getting it back on too...probably take me 7 mins to do this
A quick tip is to move your rear derailleur back as you lift the bike off the ground, that should help it to drop out effortlessly.
cheers, i'll give it go...keep the vids coming excellent work.
thanks man
wd 40 is a good for all things product.
it keeps water away effectively,which prevents it from getting very sticky or absorb dust and sand when its cooler outside or getting older on a surface.To actually use it to get rid of the old ,dirty grease is a great hack.
Just wanted to check in:
The other day my ride mate had a puncture at his backwheel ... well ... we remembered your tip on resting the bike on the handlebar ... made it really easy to change the tube while being literaly on a road inbetween fields ...
Simon, love this video. Love that you give really practical methods to cleaning the bike. WD-40 for both, wow. I have to try that.
I would love to know what you would recommend for cleaning bikes in areas of the world that experience snow and salt. I live in Canada and ride 365 and any tips I'd be really appreciative.
Love GCN keep up the good work.
WD-40 can play very risky tricks against your life if by no means it spreads on to your brake - pads brake pads. R.I.P.
hi i'm quite new to road bikes and bike cleaning in general, thanks for making this vid but i do i have a question. Between after washing off the soapy water and then applying lubricant to the chain, how do you dry the chain ? I've heard about products that are supposedly used to spray onto the chain to get rid of water. What method do you use?
You can use an old, clean rag to dry your drivetrain.
If you want to be really pro, use an air compressor, otherwise an old cloth or towel will do fine.
If u have a shop use an old hair dryer!
WD=Water Displacement
I like to clean the drivetrain first because I find all of the gunk and grease from the chain gets everywhere (i.e. All over the frame). Whenever I clean it last, I just end up re-cleaning the rest of the bike. So After I get my drivetrain as clean as possible I then move on to everything else mentioned in the video. Anyway that's my two cents, great video none the less keep it up!
Hey. The wd 40 tricks works. I have been doing it for my motorcycle chain and skyrocket since 2006. No issues whatsoever. I am with you in that one brother. See no reason to change lube now with a bicycle.
I dont know why bike shops say wd40 is bad for lubricating your bike when it is also a lubricant to begin with. do you think they say this to sell the more expensive bike lube products they have in stock?
Wd-40 makes a dedicated degreaser, comes in a yellow bottle. Use that.
I love the video (althought I woundn't dare to take my bike apart like that. would probably never manage to put it back together). I don't have any space for washing my bike though. I live in a flat and my building has no open areas (beside the corridors) and goes directly into the main street. Any alternatives to keep a bike clean without the water/washing mess?
+Jamille Vicente how about a bathtub or shower? or a large kid sized pool and a mechanic stand?
+Jamille Vicente You could buy one of those inflatable kids pools, a work stand and clean your bike in the inflatable pool, so the shit from the bike does not go all over the floor.
Unfortunately I cant! Thought about that too, but the entrance goes directly to a main pedestrian street :) so I can't be washing the bike there. But I've manage to do it in my living room by setting some plastic underneath the bike and mopping up the mess after
Thank you for this video. Very useful idea and will help me to maintain the condition of my bike. I had stopped using WD40 or similar due to what I was told by a bike shop after previously using it without any previous issues.
My local Bike shop does clinics on such things every month. Their top mechanic showed us how he has been cleaning his 7 year old bike after every ride.(thousands of miles). It takes him about 4 minutes. HE NEVER USES WATER. He sprays a light cleaning solution on a fiber cloth and wipes it down. No rinsing needed.
Any tips for cleaning the bike if you don't have any outdoor space?
Hand carwash :-)?
No spray for cleaning, just use damp/wet towels etc. Use underbedboxes to collect liquids (if you can put them below your bikestand (if you have one)). For extra ground protection you can use plastic tarp (the tickness used for tents). When spraying decreaser and such do it above the underbedboxes. Else put some paper behind the direction you are spraying. But, you can also clean your bike on the street...
i use glass cleaner and a towel for the bike and wd40 for chain, cassette, etc.. i wash my bike in my room .
I often clean the bike using a damp rag, sponge and then a dry microfibre cloth.
baby wipes can do a good job if you're stuck indoors and trying to keep mess to a minimum.
Hey guys, I am a total newbie in cycling. I just bought, as per a friend advice, a Felt F85 bike (with whom my wife has been jealous with. .) with this shimano Tiagra gear. I have been struggling a lot. Changing gears, using the special shoes, understanding the basics of the sport. I am Brazilian but i live in France, in the country side. I bought the bike to be able to travel alone with the bike, discover the country and go to the city (driving cars is not my thing...). So let's say I go to the village to buy some bread (10 km). Do I need to clean the bike?!?
+Robson Richers no - not for such a short ride as that, unless it's over dirt roads in the rain!
is it really okay to use wd-40 as a degreaser ? i can't buy degreaser right now
+Mark Keavin Yes. I've been using it for 15 years to degrease, but typically not for final lube. I degrease with it, rinse, then dry with a rag and use specific chain lube. After seeing this recommendation, I may try it for the final to see how it does. WD40 for degreaser has always worked better than an actual degreasing product.
I followed this video and I finished 1 hour later 😂😂😂
Just seen this and can't believe how easily you pop out the rear wheel, WITH the skewer. Maybe you should do a video on tips and tricks on how to do these sorts of things, pack a bike box etc. I'm astonished as I always make a hash of it!
best cycling channel on RUclips for sure.
Extra lazy tip, which i just did. When washing the bike off just fill your water bottle with water and squirt it down. None of that bucket filling or hose connecting business required
I do that everytime XD!
This dude really knows his bike up close and personal...
lol.
That's the clean up I use the it's the once every few months - never mind every ride. So lazy!!
A tip for your tip given to me by a professional car valeter. Use 2 buckets of water, one with clear water one with soap. Soap the paintwork then rinse the sponge in the clean water, then more soap for the next part of the bike. That way you get rid of any grit on the sponge and don't damage your bikes paintwork. And leave the tyres until last.
Yep, it took me over an hour to replicate this!! VERY good tips though in fairness to Simon. I followed the steps, and I think the sequence makes a pile of sense. Though it honestly I think does take longer than '5 minutes', I really don't mind that label, as had I not watched this video and followed Simon's order, it would have taken me 2 or 3 hours. Annnnnnnnnnnnd....I just might not bother!!!
So thanks Simon and GCN.
ahahahaah 5 mins
if i clean my bike it takes 5 hours
me 2 !!
Liar
Vova3iLvova hahaha well when you clean a bike that is already clean it only take five minutes lol
WD-40 is also a great substitute for Cod liver oil.
Let's all of us admit that this video took way more than 5 min in making
I've been using Muc-off in a Park Tool chain cleaner for 5 years and got degreaser recently and it works much better than the chain tool. I use a gear clean brush and Mobi pressure washer to rinse it off and you can see the black rinsing off. I've wasted so much time over the years doing 3-4 cleans every time in the chain tool.
Well done, Simon. Great to see a quick way to clean the bike. Loved the uproar you caused also. You could almost hear the howls of disbelief with your use of WD40, even in my household. I always say, if it works for you and causes no-one any harm, then do it. Promoted some very humorous comments also, like taking 5 minutes to fill up a bucket, and the wife using it as a personal lubricant. Most amusing. Keep up the good work!
Just ride through a puddle and wipe it afterwards 😂