Instructions: How to apply liquid wax correctly

 

The chain must be degreased beforehand (even new chains)!

Storage:

  • Shake thoroughly every 2-4 weeks, otherwise the emulsion may slowly separate
  • Shake thoroughly before each use
  • Store at 5-30 °C

  1. (More wax is used than was the case with oil. Here, more is more. The chain should be completely covered with a wax film)

  2. If the chain has been degreased beforehand: Now mount the chain

  3. Apply chain wax: First application: Initially, after degreasing, apply twice with 5 min intervals. Apply enough until there is a light film on the chain (only necessary for a freshly degreased chain, thereafter only one application). The wax is applied to the inside of the chain or the rollers. We recommend constantly cranking the chain (approx. 2 chain revolutions).

  4. Do not wipe, crank through or shift the chain. The wax should only be on the chain (we want the wax on the chain and try not to distribute it over the cassette etc., the lubricant must be in the chain and not on the sprockets).

  5. Apply 8 hours before riding and allow to dry (varies depending on temp., 8h is the maximum value here)

  6. After 250-300km, the wax should be reapplied (applies to road bikes, good weather etc.; for MTBs, deduct 50% of mileage, Gravel 25%). An insufficiently lubricated chain runs noticeably louder and squeaks. The chain can remain mounted. Apply wax while turning the crank counter-clockwise until there is a light wax film on the chain (approx. 2 chain revolutions). Do not wipe!

  7. After a wet ride, be sure to wipe the chain dry and apply liquid wax if possible.

  8. The best running and lubrication performance is only built up over several applications, as a wax residue slowly builds up inside the chain

Known problems:

If something goes differently than promised, please always contact us; we can easily resolve most issues!

Here's a video: https://youtu.be/vp80INS-9ME?si=Tvrf7_r0Iiqa4qq7

  • Chain is stiff, sticky: The chain was not degreased correctly.

  • Rattling: Installation error (refer to the FAQ)

  • Loud running: Wear on chain, cassette or chainrings. Interaction between chain and cassette is disturbed.

  • Squeaking: Lubrication is at its end; if it occurs prematurely, please pay attention to the application instructions.

  • Chain runs loudly

  • Flash rust: Wipe chain dry and store bike as warm and dry as possible

  • Chain slips in small gears: Cassette is worn. Even if the gear is used very little, wear is extremely high. The flatter the teeth of the cassette become, the faster the chain slips over/with less force. By degreasing the chain, a lot of dirt and sand is released from the inside; sometimes it happens that the chain suddenly "slips through" on the smallest gear under heavy load after switching to wax. This is due to the cassette, not the lubricant.

Frequently asked question

Here we give you all the answers to your most frequently asked questions.

I am using wax from a different manufacturer, do I still need to degrease?

For hot wax or water-based waxes, our liquid wax and hot wax can be applied directly.

If you are unsure, ask us: kontakt@optimize.bike

What other equipment do I need?
  • Gloves
  • Mason jar
  • Safety glasses
  • Brush
  • Chain pliers or chain rivet tool
  • Chain lock

Do I need to clean the chain again?

No, the degreasing process is completely eliminated and is therefore only necessary once when switching to chain wax.

Chain is running louder, what to do?

I have applied chain wax but now the chain is running much louder? What did I do wrong?


1 General:
After 50km of hot wax (break-in period) or generally after waxing, does the chain still run unevenly, loudly and do the chain links feel tough?

=> Then it is because the chain was not degreased correctly! Put the chain in a saucepan and let it boil in water for 15 minutes. The oil and wax will dissolve, then degrease again with brake cleaner, let it air out and re-wax!
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2. Hot wax: Chain gets louder before 800-1000km? Then the wax was boiled too hot! The wax is too liquid and drips out of the chain, which affects the mileage. It is also possible that the wax was not heated up enough, which makes it harder for the wax to penetrate the chain. Moving the chain in the pot can also help to release air bubbles etc. from the chain.
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3. Installation problems: Derailleur pulleys are directional (rattle if installed incorrectly). There is also a metal pin in the derailleur between the upper and lower derailleur pulleys (the chain must not run over it). Worn chainrings can sometimes make noise. Very rarely: chainrings installed the wrong way round (inside).

Can I mix hot and liquid wax?

Yes, all hot and liquid chain waxes are completely compatible with each other (including graphene, graphite, etc.). You don't have to pay attention to anything, just put the chain in the cooking pot or apply the wax.

What else needs to be degreased besides the chain?

What else needs to be degreased besides the chain?

  • Cassette
  • Chainrings
  • Derailleur pulleys (please re-grease later)

Problems or questions?

Feel free to contact us!