I recently sat down with Justin from I Know a Guy Bicycles on his YouTube channel to discuss everything cyclists need to know about chain waxing. The conversation covered why this “old technology made new” is revolutionizing bike maintenance for everyone from casual riders to Ironman champions.
Watch the full interview below to get all the details, or read on for the key takeaways.
Why Chain Waxing Works for Everyone
One of the most important points from our discussion is that chain waxing isn’t just for racers chasing marginal gains. As I explained to Justin, “People like it because it’s fast. People like it because it’s clean. People like it because it’s low maintenance.” Whether you’re commuting to work or competing in triathlons, the benefits are universal.
The 30-to-3 Solution
With over 30 chain wax brands on the market, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. That’s why Vital Bike Chains has simplified things by focusing on three proven options that cover 99% of riders’ needs:
- Silca Hot Melt (including their base wax and endurance/speed chip options)
- Molten MSpeedWax
- Ceramic Speed UFO
Our most popular choice? The Silca endurance blend accounts for 60% of our sales because most riders prioritize longevity over saving a few watts.
The Hidden Cost of Factory Grease
Here’s something many cyclists don’t realize: The grease on your brand-new chain isn’t performance lubricant—it’s just rust prevention for shipping. As I shared in the interview, even bikes straight from the shop need their chains properly degreased and waxed. One local customer now ships new bikes directly to us for chain prep before their kids can ride them!
DIY vs. Professional Service
While the actual waxing process is straightforward, degreasing is where most people struggle. Think of it like painting a car—the time-consuming prep work is everything. For those interested in DIY, a half-bag of wax (about $20) can treat 30 chains and might last a lifetime for some riders.
For those who prefer convenience, our service streamlines the entire process. We also provide inspection services. We recently caught a damaged link that could have ruined a customer’s mountain bike race.
Ready to experience the benefits of a properly waxed chain? Check out our selection of pre-waxed chains or learn about our custom waxing services. And don’t forget to watch the full interview for even more insights, including tips on race-day chain prep and why one of our chains just won the Florida Ironman!
Have questions about chain waxing? Drop them in the YouTube comments, and we’ll address them in future videos.