Lubes & Grease » Boeshield

A quiet bike is a good bike, and we have heaps of different lubricants to keep things running smooth.

Different styles of riding might call for a different lubricant: waxier, wetter, or something in between.

Wet lubricants are better suited for wet climates: being oil-based, they don’t wash away in the rain as easily as dry lubes do. They do pick up dirt more easily, however!

Dry lubes attract less dirt, making them a great choice for riding in drier, dustier conditions. Their liquid component is more soluble, however, so may need to be reapplied more frequently if you ride in wet conditions.

FAQ: Yes, they are both “wet” when they are applied, but dry lubricants’ liquid component evaporates away, leaving a thin lubricant film, while wet lubes remain (you guessed it) wet!

Universal lubricants blend the two, meaning you get a versatile mix of the both if you mix multiple styles of riding.

Whatever you need, we’ve got you covered.

 

Deep dive:

1. Wet Chain Lube

• Formulation: Wet lubes are typically oil-based and are designed to stick to the chain and provide long-lasting lubrication in challenging conditions.
• Use Case: Wet lubes are ideal for wet, muddy, or rainy conditions. They are thicker, which helps them adhere to the chain and resist being washed off by water or mud.
• Advantages:
  • Provides better protection against rust and corrosion in wet environments.
  • Stays on the chain longer, reducing the need for frequent reapplication.
• Disadvantages:
  • Attracts more dirt, grime, and debris due to its sticky nature.
  • Can cause a buildup of gunk, leading to chain wear over time.

2. Dry Chain Lube

• Formulation: Dry lubes are usually solvent-based and thinner, evaporating quickly after application to leave a dry, waxy or thin oil coating.
• Use Case: Dry lubes are best suited for dry, dusty conditions. They prevent dust and dirt from sticking to the chain by leaving a non-sticky surface.
• Advantages:
  • Less mess and build-up of dirt and grime.
  • Works well in dry, sandy, or dusty conditions.
• Disadvantages:
  • Needs more frequent reapplication, especially if it rains or the trail is wet, as it can wash off easily.
  • Offers less protection in terms of corrosion resistance compared to wet lubes in wet conditions.

3. Universal Chain Lube

Universal lubes are designed to be versatile, offering performance across a wide range of conditions, making them a good middle ground between wet and dry lubes. Here’s how they compare:

• Formulation
  • Universal lubes typically combine elements from both wet and dry lubes. They might have a base oil that offers good lubrication and water resistance, while also incorporating some ingredients that help minimize dirt buildup.
  • These lubes are often less thick than wet lubes but thicker than dry lubes.
• Use Case
  • Universal lubes are made for riders who want a single lube to work across various weather conditions, from dry to light wet conditions. They work well in environments where you might encounter a mix of weather, such as light rain or varying humidity.
  • They are also a good option for casual riders or those who don’t want to switch lubes depending on the forecast.
• Advantages
  • Convenience: One lube can be used year-round, reducing the need for multiple products.
  • Versatility: Performs reasonably well in both dry and wet conditions, making it a good all-rounder.
  • Less dirt buildup: It’s less sticky than wet lubes, so it doesn’t attract as much dirt or grime, but not as much as dry lubes.
• Disadvantages
  • Not specialized: While it can handle a range of conditions, it may not perform as well as a wet lube in heavy rain or a dry lube in dusty environments.
  • Moderate longevity: It might require more frequent reapplication than wet lube in wet conditions or dry lube in dry conditions.