We’ve seen chain cleaners come and go, get re-invented, and even cause more of a problem than they’re worth. Like chain lube, there is really no real clear winner on which one works best, but WD-40 focused on keeping it simple, making it easier to use, and making it durable.
Slip past the break to see why WD-40 thinks they have hit a home run with their new cleaning system….
WD-40 Bike has made a strong entrance onto the bike scene, and not just because they’re a part of one of the most recognized general use lube products in the world, (that you still don’t use on your chain). “WD-40 Bike” is managed completely separate from its parent company, only being sold in actual bike shops. The line is kept simple with only 6 quality lubes (5 bike specific plus the original recipe) and cleaners, and despite the “don’t use WD-40 on your chain” mantras, shop mechanics have taken to it quite nicely.
Seeing their new chain cleaner, my first thoughts were, oh, another attempt to make cleaning your chain easy and less messy. However, WD-40 incorporated a couple of clever features and in just handling it, it felt very durable.
The WD-40 Chain Cleaner has a release switch that locks it securely onto the chain and allows to to be easily removed, however what stands out is that odd little metal hook. The hook is for holding the unit in place while cycling the chain backwards by hooking it on the derailleur cage. This way you don’t have to use your free hand to hold it in place, and you can clean the cassette with your free hand using their new brush at the same time eliminating a step in the process of cleaning your drivetrain.
The unit is simple and easy to clean out since it’s not overly complicated with too many nooks & crannies and elaborate brushing systems. But the the real question is – how well does it actually work?
While not that all exciting to some, many wrenches out there might like WD-40’s new brush. Its bristles are sturdy, but long & fine enough to work their way deep into the cassette & derailleur’s tight spots. Using this along with the new “held in place” chain cleaner, cleaning times could be sped up and simplified.
