Apply a moderate amount of Dry Chain Lube to the inside chain link while spin pedals in a reverse motion

Whichever lube you prefer to use, for the best results Trimnell suggests that you leave the lube on the chain overnight before riding for maximum benefit.

Muc-Off Dry Lube Bike Lube, 120ml

If that’s to be believed, you could also make an argument that you’re spending your money mostly on carrier fluid that’s designed to disappear into thin air. However, you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to chain lubes – with countless brands offering a range of different types of lube and formulas – so finding the best chain oil isn’t always easy. Soggy, salty November outings have made negligible impression upon these characteristics and I've been astounded by how clean my Univega's drivetrain remains despite perpetual exposure to waterlogged, silty lanes with occasional cross country short cuts thrown in for good measure. Its qualities were less obvious on my cross inspired fixer given the inherently simple transmission, but tending to rear wheel punctures has been a notably cleaner business. As things stand, immersive waxing or waxed-based chain lubes are best. The efficiency and cleanliness make them clear leaders in this category. We would always advise keeping your bike as clean as possible, and topping up the chain lube after a wet ride will at least prevent corrosion.

Most lubes contain synthetic oils, along with friction-reducing additives such as PTFE (Teflon) and carrier fluids that evaporate after application. In summer conditions, there can be benefits in applying a dry lube less frequently, as this will prevent the build-up of grime on your chain, which can speed up wear. How do I apply chain lube?When conditions are reasonably dry then it lasts very well and I have used it without issue on road, gravel and mountain bike drivetrains, but I confess that my chains do get very regularly cleaned. If you prefer to layer on lube after lube without recourse to a brush and cleaner, then perhaps look elsewhere. You can source the ingredients separately yourself, but ZFC says that commercial blends such as Molten Speed Wax use more highly refined paraffin wax than what is normally available to consumers, for optimum performance and cleanliness.

It’s fair to say not everyone will have the inclination or patience for it though. After all, outright efficiency and cleanliness almost certainly matter less to most commuters than the ability for your bike to last a couple of weeks in all weathers without cleaning it. You get more lubricant per millilitre with this type of lube and the increased viscosity of the oils means this type of lubricant should last longer and is much less prone to getting washed off your chain if you encounter water. For wet conditions, the winner is slightly less clear cut, but we’d still recommend waxed-based lubricants for their efficiency. Crucially, however, you’ll have to be prepared to clean your chain immediately after wet rides to prevent corrosion. Delivery is more predictable than most so wastage and/or clean up time is greatly reduced, though keep some old clean rag handy to collect any drips since these are devilishly difficult to remove, even from concrete floors. We hope you found this guide helpful, feel free to get in touch on our live chat if you have any questions on the best lube for your bike!

If you’re after the fastest, most efficient drivetrain possible, immersive waxing is currently king. Look around any professional race or time trial and you’re bound to spot more than a few waxed chains.