FAQ’S
How often should I re-lube?
It depends on riding conditions. In general, when you start hearing a dry chain noise, re-application is already due. In wet, muddy conditions it will not last as long as in dry-dust free conditions. In general, from 30 to 300 miles on one application – the chain will stay clean. If you expect riding in wet conditions, lube your chain the day before if possible.
Do I need to de-grease my chain before start using Squirt Chain Lube for the first time?
Yes. Squirt should be started on a clean, properly de-greased and dry chain. Factory grease on a new chain should be removed with organic solvent if needed. A second application ten minutes after the first is recommended when starting out with Squirt.
How do I apply Squirt Long Lasting Chain Lube?
First time user:
1. Completely remove factory grease and other lubricants from your chain using a degreaser.
2. Rinse your chain with clean water and let it dry.
3. Follow the application instructions below and repeat after 5 minutes.
Application Instructions
1. Shake bottle and apply to inside of DRY chain while turning the cranks.
2. Do not wipe off.
3. Allow chain to dry completely before cycling – especially in wet conditions.
4. Do not degrease again.
How often should I de-grease the chain when using Squirt Long Lasting Chain Lube?
De-greasing is not necessary when you’ve been using Squirt Long Lasting Chain Lube. It does not form a black build-up like oils that traps dirt to accelerate chain wear. It does not smudge and stays dry. Brush off with dry brush if needed and remove occasional build-up from rear derailleur wheels with a toothpick.
We generally do not advise too frequent deep-cleaning as it removes all embedded wax from inside the chain and a two-coat reapplication of the lube will be required as per the application instructions. However, cleaning should be handled on a case-by-case basis such as when you hear the chain grinding after a muddy ride, because this implies that excessive dirt entered the chain that needs to be washed out.
On bike cleaning
For on-bike cleaning, usually two rounds using a clamp-on type cleaner (such as Park Tool CG-2.4) and our Squirt biodegradable Bike Cleaner product is adequate. Rinse well with clean water and reapply two coats of lube as per the application instructions.
Thorough Cleaning
For a more intensive clean, use about 1-2 litres of boiling water and pour slowly over the bottom span of the chain (between the rear derailleur and chainring) while turning the cranks backwards. This melts the wax and rinses it out of the chain together with trapped dirt. Follow this up with a couple rounds using the clamp-on type cleaner until the cleaning solution is not visibly dirty anymore. Always rinse well with clean water and reapply two coats of lube as per the application instructions.
Deep Cleaning
For deep cleaning, the chain can be removed and degreased with a couple of rounds of soaking/shaking/rinsing in an organic solvent like kerosene or white spirits or a dedicated degreaser product. Follow this up with a rinse in solvent like IPA (Isopropyl Alcohol) or methylated spirits to remove any possible residue left by the degreasers and reapply two coats of lube as per the application instructions. Discard all chemicals in an environmentally responsible way. Specialist workshops have ultrasonic cleaners that work well, and the user instruction of the device should be followed.
I have noticed an amount of small black particles coming off the drive train on my stationary trainer. Why is this happening?
The small black particles are normal on stationary trainers. This also happens when on the road or trails, one just does not see it. It is the hard-wax components of Squirt shedding from the chain. Excess wax and dirt trapped sheds via this method. You may find that more wax accumulates on the chain of your trainer – this is due the chain not vibrating/shaking enough to promote shedding. Our biodegradability rating is therefore important as it would end up in the natural environment.
Will Squirt Chain Lube separate when left standing for long periods?
All our chain lubes are biodegradable wax/water emulsions together with additives to prevent component wear. We continually monitor the quality of the waxes we use to ensure we meet the highest standards and legislative compliance. Using newer generation fully refined waxes can result in natural separation of the emulsion if left standing for long periods of time. If you find that your bottle of Squirt Chain Lube has a visible separation layer in the bottom, this is normal. When shaken well before application, this does not affect the performance of the lube. For optimal performance, follow the user application instructions on the bottle label or on the section in this FAQ.
What is the shelf life of Squirt Long Lasting Chain Lube?
If stored under recommended conditions, the lube will last for many years. Stability samples of older than 15 years still retain functionality.
My lube is much thicker than when I bought it. What’s wrong with it?
Squirt should be stored between 40℉ and 95℉ with the cap on. If it freezes (below 32℉, 0℃) or dries out, it becomes thick. It can be restored to a creamy liquid by adding a little water and shaking it up (normally about 10% of water).
