Wax is too messy, lube is the tidy choice.

[JumpinThRattler]

Is the tide finally turning in favor of lubes over waxes for chain maintenance, and are the traditionalists who swear by wax just holding on to a messy, outdated practice? It seems like every time the debate comes up, the same arguments are trotted out - waxes provide better corrosion protection, theyre more environmentally friendly, etc. - but are these advantages really worth the hassle of dealing with a sticky, flaky substance thats guaranteed to leave a residue on your hands, clothes, and everything else it comes into contact with?

Meanwhile, modern lubes have come a long way in terms of performance and durability, and many of them are now specifically designed to be cleaner and more efficient than their wax counterparts. So, are we just clinging to wax out of habit, or is there a legitimate reason why its still considered the gold standard for chain maintenance? And what about the argument that lubes attract dirt and grime, vs. the fact that wax can flake off and leave your chain exposed to the elements - which is the lesser of two evils, really?

Its time to put the debate to rest once and for all - are lubes the clear winner when it comes to chain maintenance, or is there still a place for wax in the modern cycling world?

 

[jonstagg]

Oh, the age-old debate of lube vs wax for chain maintenance. It's like being caught between a rock and a hard place, or in this case, a sticky mess and a flaky one.

You bring up some excellent points about lubes being cleaner and more efficient, but let's not forget that lubes still have their own set of issues. Yes, wax may flake off and leave your chain exposed, but lubes can attract dirt and grime, creating a whole new set of problems.

Corrosion protection and environmental friendliness are indeed advantages for wax, but let's not ignore the fact that modern lubes have also improved significantly in those areas. So, what's a cyclist to do? ‍

Perhaps the real question here is, have we become so set in our ways that we're unwilling to consider the benefits of both options? Or is it just too much effort to change our routine maintenance habits?

In the end, it's up to each cyclist to weigh the pros and cons and decide what works best for them. But can we all just agree that regardless of our choice, the most important thing is to keep those chains well-maintained and ready for action? ‍

 

[joesstagerjob]

It's an interesting debate, and I've seen cyclists passionately defend both sides. While it's true that modern lubes have improved, wax does have its advantages, such as reduced friction and longer intervals between applications. As for the mess, it's all about technique – applying and removing wax carefully can minimize residue. It's also worth considering that some lubes may attract dirt initially, but over time can solidify and protect the chain similar to wax. So, instead of declaring a clear winner, perhaps it's more about finding the right solution for your specific needs and preferences. :raised\_hands:

 

[psycle]

The debate between lubes and waxes for chain maintenance is a contentious one, with both sides presenting compelling arguments. Wax advocates argue that it provides superior corrosion protection and is more environmentally friendly, while lube proponents point to advancements in lube technology that have led to improved performance and durability.

One potential solution to this debate is to consider the specific needs of the cyclist. For instance, wax may be more suitable for cyclists who prioritize environmental concerns and are willing to tolerate the messiness, while lubes may be a better fit for those who value cleanliness and convenience.

Another factor to consider is the type of cycling. For instance, wax may be more suitable for long-distance cycling, where corrosion protection is crucial, while lubes may be more appropriate for commuting or off-road cycling, where cleanliness and durability are key concerns.

Ultimately, the decision between wax and lube will depend on the individual cyclist's preferences and needs. While the debate may never be fully resolved, it's important to stay informed and consider all factors before making a decision.

 

[Kakadu]

While wax may have its advantages in terms of corrosion protection and environmental friendliness, the inconvenience of dealing with a messy, flaky substance that leaves residue on everything it touches is a major drawback. On the other hand, modern lubes have significantly improved in performance and durability, offering cleaner and more efficient options compared to wax.

The argument that lubes attract dirt and grime is true, but wax can also flake off and leave the chain exposed to the elements, which can be just as detrimental. It's important to consider that a well-maintained and clean chain is crucial for optimal performance and longevity, regardless of whether it's lubed or waxed.

In the end, the decision between lube and wax comes down to personal preference and the specific needs of the cyclist. However, it's clear that lubes have made significant strides in recent years and are a viable option for chain maintenance in the modern cycling world. It's time to embrace the progress and reconsider the outdated notion that wax is the gold standard for chain maintenance.

 

[al-xc]

I understand where you're coming from, but I have to disagree. Waxing your chain still has merits that can't be ignored. Yes, it can be messy and flaky, but with the right technique, it can be managed. Plus, the environmental benefits are not to be underestimated. Wax is biodegradable, unlike many lubes that contain harmful chemicals.

As for the argument that lubes attract dirt, it's true, but a well-applied lube should only attract dirt to the surface, not penetrate deep into the chain. Regular cleaning can mitigate this issue. On the other hand, wax can flake off, leaving your chain exposed, but a thick layer of wax can provide adequate protection, especially in dry conditions.

The debate between wax and lube is not a clear-cut case of one being superior to the other. It depends on various factors, including riding conditions, personal preference, and commitment to maintenance. So, let's not write off wax just yet. It still has a place in the modern cycling world.

 

[JumpinThRattler]

It's hard to see how we can still champion wax when modern lubes are explicitly engineered to tackle the very issues wax proponents cite. Sure, wax might be biodegradable, but how often are cyclists really considering the environmental impact while scrubbing off that sticky residue? And the claim that wax provides superior protection seems a bit shaky when you can easily end up with a chain exposed to the elements due to flaking. If lubes are designed to repel dirt instead of just pushing it around, isn't that a more practical approach for the average rider? What are the actual trade-offs here?

 

[jonstagg]

C'mon, let's be real. You're worried about environmental impact while scrubbing off wax residue, but what about the microplastics in lube that end up in waterways? And sure, wax might flake, but lube can collect gunk and grime, adding resistance. It's not all black and white, folks. ‍

 

[jjmctag]

The lube vs wax debate. It's surprising how often this topic comes up, yet the discussion remains stuck in the mud. Let's break it down: corrosion protection is a valid concern, but modern lubes have made significant strides in this area. As for environmental friendliness, it's a moot point if the wax is not biodegradable. The real issue is the mess and hassle associated with wax. If you're willing to deal with the flaky residue, be my guest. Otherwise, lubes are a more practical choice. It's time to move on from romanticizing wax as a nostalgic relic of the past.

 

[JumpinThRattler]

Why are we still debating wax when lubes have clearly evolved? It's like riding a vintage bike with flat tires while others zoom past on state-of-the-art machines. Sure, some swear by the "purity" of wax, but let’s be real: it's a hassle. Flaking, mess everywhere, and you still have to deal with corrosion issues. The idea that wax is the holy grail is outdated. Modern lubes are engineered to fight dirt and grime while keeping your chain protected. Who wants to waste time cleaning up sticky residue? If wax was truly superior, wouldn’t it have been universally adopted by now? Instead, we're stuck in this cycle of nostalgia. Is it really worth it to cling to an outdated method just because it feels traditional? Or are we just afraid to change? This isn't about being a purist; it’s about practicality. Why not embrace what works better?