Is WD-40 a good choice to lube my Bike?

Question

My chain and sprocket seems to be getting squeaky, and needs lube. I was thinking WD-40. Is this a good idea? Or is there some other type of lubricant that would be much better for the bike?

I have an 07 Norco Wolverine if it makes any difference..

Answer 1

NO!!

WD-40 gets rid of the grease. Just look for some chain lube at a bike shop.

Answer 2

NO

WD-40 is a solvent, not a lubricant.

USE 3 in 1 oil, or sewing machine oil or good "lube" from a bike shop. Put it on your chain and besure to WIPE OFF YOUR CHAIN afterwards. Be sparing with your application. tyr not to get it on your rims, or your brake pads.

Answer 3

No WD40!!!! WD40 and many lubricants attract dirt. Even many lubricants sold specifically for bikes at bike shops attract road grime. You want a lubricant the doesn't attract road grime because most mechanical breakdowns occur because the components aren't cleaned enough. Ask your LBS (Local bike shop) what they use on the bikes they sell and the bikes they service. That's the best indicator of what to buy.

Answer 4

The type of bicycle makes no difference.

As a LAST resort, use WD-40.  BTW WD is short for Water Displacing.

I prefer the wax lubricants.  Unless you are expecting wet rainy conditions.  Then use a petroleum base chain lube.

Answer 5

WD40 is, as other contributors have said,  an agent for water displacement - its good for cleaning and getting rid of gammy buildup from your chain too !!!!  (Although I use GT40 for this).

You might be able to use it as a lubricant on dry dustfree tarmac but only in the short term!!!  

The bike you describe however is a mountain bike (more likely to get grimey and pick up abrasive nasties) Use a good detergent or degreaser to clean your chain, drown it in WD40, wipe off excess then, then apply a heavier oil,  (maybe a 3in1 or similar). Better still use a good wet lube (forget waxes for MTB's).

Whatever you use - keep it clean and keep it lubricated!!

Best of luck mate.

.

Answer 6

NO! GOD! i see more bikes come into the shop that are drenched in WD-40. this isnt your creaky screen door, this is a finely tuned cycling machine. The jury is out on wax lube vs. non. Go with a very tried and true wet-lube (Tri-flow is the best IMHO) and use as needed. I wouldnt copiusly spray it down, but be liberal. tri-flowing your chain about once every 2 weeks (more or less depending on how often, what conditions, and how hard you ride). give a couple of shots on each side of the bottom bracket spindle.

Answer 7

Absolutely not WD40 is a water displacement and not a lubricant. Would recommend TF2 or GT40 from your local cycle shop. Both these contain Teflon, to stick to your chain that is why they are good.

Answer 8

WD-40 is more of a degreaser.  Buy a real chain lube from a bike shop.

Use the WD to clean the chain, rings, and sprocket.  Get all the gunk off.  Then wipe down real good.   Then apply the lube to the chain only...lay it on good as you move the chain...let it set a few min, then wipe off the excess and you'll be set.