Bike maintenance (newbie)

pudzey101

Just purchased a new Apollo mountain bike , and want to know how to keep it in good shape? Eg like servicing a car. What products should I use to clean and oil the chain every so often ? Would wd40 or gt85 be ok ?

Raam

WD40 is more a degreaser, not suitable for chains. Get a proper chain lubricant.

pudzey101

Any chain lubricant u can reccomend ? Taught wd40 would have done the job

ezra_pound

GT 85 is great for degreasing. As other poster said, get a proper bike lube and apply once you've dried your degreased chain.

You tube can be great for bike maintenance.

After cleaning chain, gears are probably next most common thing to adjust. Be careful though! It can be tricky!

Raam

I use this, but really any bike specific one will do fine for you.
http://www.chainreactioncycles.com/ie/en/finish-line-cross-country-wet-lube-120ml/rp-prod1041

WD40 has some lubricating oils in it but it is not specifically designed to lubricate your chain.

Some folk think it is fine to use, others think not. I prefer to go with a proper lubricant.

Raam

Jockey wheels, keep them as clean as you can.

pudzey101

So degrease chain with gt85 and apply a good chain lube ? That's about all il be aw to do till I get more confident lol

Raam

For chain cleaning I use this tool, just cos it is handy...
http://www.parktool.com/product/chain-gang-cleaning-system-CG-2-2

diomed

Finish Line Wet Lube
http://www.chainreactioncycles.com/ie/en/finish-line-cross-country-wet-lube-120ml/rp-prod1041

Before a spin clean the chain with a clean cotton rag, then apply wet lube. Do this often (every long spin, or a few short spins, or after a wet spin).