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Bike Cleaning 101: A Step-by-Step Guide to Bike Maintenance
If you plan on keeping your bike in great condition for a long time, there's one simple but often overlooked task that can make a big difference: washing your bike. In this video, we'll guide you through the process of washing your bike, step by step, to achieve the best possible results.
To start, let's introduce some essential Entity products available on the Bikes Online website that you'll need for this task. The first product is DG60 Bike Wash spray, a versatile cleaner that can be used on all parts of your bike. Next is DG15 spray degreaser, a more powerful formula designed for tackling greasy or oily components like cassettes. We also have DG30 Chain Degreaser, specifically formulated for cleaning your bike's chain. As a follow-up to DG30, Entity offers two chain lubes: LB30 Dry Lube for dry or dusty conditions, and LB15 Wet Lube for wet or snowy conditions. With all the necessary products introduced, let's dive into the cleaning process!
Before we begin, gather some additional supplies: a bucket, your preferred soap, a sponge or mitt, a rag, a soft-bristled brush for painted surfaces, a stiff-bristled brush, a cassette brush, and a flat head screwdriver (we'll explain its use later). Once you have everything ready, place your dirty bike on a bike stand. If you don't have a stand, you can remove the front wheel and lean the bike against a wall. Now, fill the bucket with warm to hot water and add your soap. Warm water helps loosen grime more effectively. It's time to get our cleaning crew ready!
Entity Cleaning Kits
Step 1: Degrease the drivetrain. Start with the most aggressive chemicals and gradually move to the least aggressive to ensure all residues are rinsed off completely. Use DG30 chain degreaser and a stiff brush to clean the chain. For a 2x system, position the chain on the biggest ring and rotate the pedals backward while applying DG30 generously to the entire chain. Scrub all surfaces with the brush, then rinse. Repeat until the chain looks clean. Use a flat head screwdriver to scrape off any dirt from the rear derailleur's jockey wheels.
Step 2: Clean the cassette. Use DG15 spray degreaser for grimy cassettes. Spray carefully to avoid hub bearings or suspension pivots. Let it sit, then scrub with a cassette brush and rinse thoroughly. Repeat if needed.
Step 3: Wash the entire bike. Spray DG60 Bike Wash over the bike and let it sit briefly without drying. Use a soft brush for stubborn dirt, then rinse with low-pressure water to avoid damaging sensitive parts. Once rinsed, apply soap to all surfaces.
Step 4: Detail cleaning. Pay attention to hard-to-reach areas like between spokes, cassette, underside of the bike, brake calipers, and inner fork legs. Use mitts, rags, or brushes to clean thoroughly. Finish with a final rinse.
Step 5: Dry and lubricate. Use a clean towel to dry the bike completely. Apply the appropriate chain lube (LB15 Wet or LB30 Dry) with one drop per roller to minimize waste and grime buildup. Let it settle, then wipe off excess. Finally, inspect brake pads and tires, replacing or repairing as needed. Your bike is now clean and ready to ride!
