Maximizing Drivetrain Efficiency & Longevity: Deep Dive With Josh Poertner

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Marginal gains expert Josh Poertner joins us for a super nerdy deep dive into everything to do with drivetrains. How chains and lubricants actually work? Which lubes are best to use and when? How do you clean and care for waxed chains? What does the future of bicycle drivetrains look like? We discuss all these questions and much more!
00:00 Intro
00:32 Demands on the drivetrain
03:41 Chain lubrication
05:41 Chain efficiency comparison
08:38 Lubricant additives
13:15 Interplay between speed & longevity
14:56 Real world efficiency
19:10 Comparing different types of lube
22:25 Best lubricant for wet conditions
25:07 Best lubricant for off-road riding
26:20 Best lubricant for ultra events
28:42 Future of drivetrains
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Пікірлер: 342

  • @gcntech
    @gcntech Жыл бұрын

    Do you want to see us make more deep dive videos like this? 🤔 Let us know in the comments below! 👇

  • @Jari1973

    @Jari1973

    Жыл бұрын

    Absolutely 👍

  • @ainchents

    @ainchents

    Жыл бұрын

    Yes please

  • @Foxtrottangoabc

    @Foxtrottangoabc

    Жыл бұрын

    Josh did a great job really interesting . Learnt alot , at the very least the importance of proper chain cleaning regardless of lube. So yes please

  • @nsambafrancis8033

    @nsambafrancis8033

    Жыл бұрын

    Absolutely yes, these videos are so educative

  • @taburetca

    @taburetca

    Жыл бұрын

    But wax can't work in wet conditions, Especially drip on wax It is dissolved in water and it will also dissolve in rain

  • @MarcusBrito
    @MarcusBrito Жыл бұрын

    Josh is such an awesome guy. I love episodes featuring him. What I got from today’s episode is that the bike chain is a marvel of modern engineering we take for granted.

  • @kylieon51ststreet71

    @kylieon51ststreet71

    Жыл бұрын

    I agree! Unlike that racist liar Adam Kerin aka Zero Friction Cycling. He made racist comments towards Hambini and lies so much on his youtube channel just to sell over price parrafin wax products.

  • @frenzalrhomb1

    @frenzalrhomb1

    Жыл бұрын

    Which episode does Adam say racist things about Hambini

  • @gcntech

    @gcntech

    Жыл бұрын

    The humble chain! How many adventures have been powered by the chain? 👀

  • @veganpotterthevegan

    @veganpotterthevegan

    Жыл бұрын

    ​@@kylieon51ststreet71Adam sells a lot of Silca and Josh uses his data

  • @andrewmcalister3462
    @andrewmcalister3462 Жыл бұрын

    28:15 Ollie's excitement at Alex's suggestion of a 2nd waxed chain. It's like he just won the lottery. 😂 Seriously though, thank you Alex, Josh and Ollie for tackling this topic in detail.

  • @gcntech

    @gcntech

    Жыл бұрын

    You're welcome!

  • @iacobogallus2110

    @iacobogallus2110

    Жыл бұрын

    Having more than 1 chain when waxing is a must 😉😉😉

  • @jameshmd

    @jameshmd

    Жыл бұрын

    But what about the weight penalty of carrying an extra chain over three Everests 😂… surely heavier than carrying some wet lube.

  • @Darth_Firebolt

    @Darth_Firebolt

    Жыл бұрын

    I rode 240 miles to a vacation and carried a waxed and ready to go chain with me. I got to my vacation spot, swapped chains, enjoyed my vacation, and rode home. It worked great, and then I waxed them both when I got home. Compared to the clothing and chargers and water and snacks that I took, the weight of the extra chain was literally negligible. Now I know that for the same situation, I could just carry a small bottle of wax lube and apply it once I get there! Even better!

  • @Biking360
    @Biking360 Жыл бұрын

    One of the best guests ever on GCN Tech 👍

  • @jeremynorth

    @jeremynorth

    Жыл бұрын

    Probably the best

  • @paulagraphr

    @paulagraphr

    Жыл бұрын

    And he speaks English! JK love my friends across the pond

  • @Thomas-fy9yc
    @Thomas-fy9yc Жыл бұрын

    Josh is a great addition to this show, I went to listening while doing the dishes to practically taking notes during…keep him coming back.

  • @jeremynorth
    @jeremynorth Жыл бұрын

    This is a brilliant episode. As well as Josh's expertise some excellent questions and input from Alex and Ollie. More of these please

  • @gcntech

    @gcntech

    Жыл бұрын

    Alex who sorry? 😂

  • @zerofrictioncycling992
    @zerofrictioncycling992 Жыл бұрын

    Thanks GCN and thanks Josh, it is so good to see GCN now putting out great information to viewers in this space. The more who see such vids = more cyclists saving a ton of wear on lovely components, which equals cost to run savings, and also cuts down on a lot of general cleaning maintenance using solvents that end up goodness knows where as the top lubricants just need so little maintenance to remain clean and low friction / wear. Having a major channel help save countless thousands of drivetrains from and early death is just brilliant to see!

  • @MrGoodaches
    @MrGoodaches Жыл бұрын

    I started waxing about a decade ago merely for the cleanliness. Wife and I were doing fly/bike trips with a small plane and MTBs. No matter which brand of oil lube or efforts I made for cleaning I was inevitably getting chain stains on me or clothes as I loaded or unloaded bikes from plane. With wax I could intentionally touch the chain and not get a mark. That was the start. Since then I’ve noticed much longer chain lives and substantially less time spent on chain maintenance. I’m talking about immersing chains in melted paraffin wax (grocery store wax). The initial time getting the factory petroleum goo off the chains and doing the wax immersion is given back to me many times over with less maintenance fuss over the life of the chains, and it’s a longer life also. Even after a dirty, muddy single track ride I just hose off the bikes. If I notice any wax flakes on the chain I just spin the drive train backwards against a paintbrush and the flakes fall away. We don’t race but the cleanliness, longer chain life, and the silly easy maintenance are plenty reason enough for immersion waxing. I am a fan of Josh and his marginal gains research. However due to price I’m not using his specially formulated chain wax. But I did invest in his The Truth tire pressure gauge. It would be a whole additional posting to talk up the advantages us non racers have gained from figuring out optimal pressures and having an accurate and precise method of setting the optimal pressures.

  • @b0jang

    @b0jang

    Жыл бұрын

    Interesting - I would almost always consider the specially formulated chain wax over a $250 gauge but this has got me thinking about the potential inaccuracies of my floor pump.. is this something more applicable in your MTB scenario or equally important in a commuting/weekend road ride scenario?

  • @makantahi3731

    @makantahi3731

    3 ай бұрын

    waxed chain maintenance can be more easier if you use battery inductive heater, to heat up chain on bike and wax it on bike, 6-10 minutes

  • @MrGoodaches

    @MrGoodaches

    3 ай бұрын

    I must admit it wasn’t a specific decision to choose an expensive pressure gauge over a lube formulation. The gauge was an impulse buy at an event where SILCA had a booth and an event discount. I most often set our tire pressures based upon dimensionally achieving 15% drop if we’re doing a road ride, or 18% if we are going off pavement. But, setting that way requires a second person to measure while the rider sits on bike. It’s practical enough that we checked and set our pressures that way on many bikepacking trips including Canada to Mexico on the GDMBR. But sometimes I just want to get bikes ready while she is packing our lunch - then I set to PSI. Purchasing The Truth gauge was more about wanting something precise and accurate that I could compare to gauge on my floor pump and help friends check the gauges they have. In the end, the additional benefit I can get from special formulation over plain paraffin wax is less than the additional gain I get from having my tire pressures optimized.

  • @bike.mad.kimbos
    @bike.mad.kimbos Жыл бұрын

    The bottom line is 'keep your chain as clean as possible' i've just changed mine after 5500 miles both outdoor and indoor use. I check monthly with the Park Tools CC-2 to ensure i stay on top of wear. A regular wipe down with a (GT85 damp) lint free cloth then a degrease/ relube at regular intervals keeps it tip top.

  • @CatManDoSocial
    @CatManDoSocial Жыл бұрын

    Excellent interview. Josh and also Adam from Zero Friction Cycling are just absolutely brilliant and both have integrity that is rarely seen. I know that Silca is now a sponsor (which is great) but this has improved your maintenance content significantly. I've been using Silca Hot Melt on my MTB chain for over a year and just had to replace it because of a large stick in the drivetrain, but it still showed NO sign of wear. Also, the thing that most people don't understand about hot melt waxing, and think it's too much trouble, is that you only have to clean the chain once to get the factory grease off of it and that's it. Never again. It really is amazing.

  • @gcntech

    @gcntech

    Жыл бұрын

    Thanks a lot, glad you found it interesting! Are there any other deep-dive topics you'd like to see us cover?

  • @CatManDoSocial

    @CatManDoSocial

    Жыл бұрын

    ​@@gcntech Well, I really love the manufacturing videos. I know it's probably not easy to get frame/component manufacturers to open up, and they're all over the world, but it's awesome to see how things are made. And yes, I've watched several on GCN+. I would also like to see a deep and honest look at the carbon footprint of the cycling industry. We all know that cycling is better than driving, but I'm not talking about that. It would be great to talk about materials and manufacturing processes and how it cold be better. It would also be great to look at what some companies are doing to make things better as well as the B Corporation certification. You've done things like this in the past but it hasn't been a deep-dive as you said. Thanks!

  • @BRMCaptChaos

    @BRMCaptChaos

    Жыл бұрын

    What makes you think Zero Friction has undoubted integrity? The pricing is 'interesting', and I doubt the claims based on R2 and a reasonable test method. It would make a good undergrad study. And a PhD to give it to ASTM.

  • @LostBeagle
    @LostBeagle Жыл бұрын

    Knife manufacturers have used different types of steel over the years, including but not limited to heat treated steel. Please discuss how chain manufacturers can use different steels to maximize chain life and efficiency

  • @DL-iq5zo
    @DL-iq5zo Жыл бұрын

    Yes to more deep dive videos!!! The panel had an educational discussion. The useful information is much appreciated.

  • @MikeDeVincentis
    @MikeDeVincentis Жыл бұрын

    I recently switched to Silka hot wax as I got a new gravel bike and wanted to prolong wear as knew I'd constantly be in the dust. I converted 2 chains and took them to Unbound this year. The 1st chain I converted had about 80 miles of riding before the event, and with the mud, rain and 205 miles, the chain did amazing. I'm a wax fan for life now. It really is not that much extra work either. Just get a dedicated mixing bowl for the instant pot so you can easily dip the chain. Now I just need to convert the other 4 bikes to wax. 😋

  • @ianlaker9161
    @ianlaker9161 Жыл бұрын

    That was absolutely superb. A real revelation about a component we all take for granted and probably don't lube properly. I will now throw my dry lube away. My chain was starting to jump on one particular gear during RideLondon 100 last Sunday and I'll be fitting a new one as well as a new cassette this week. The info from this video will hopefully make this new setup last longer. Fascinating stuff.

  • @mickinmerton8053
    @mickinmerton8053 Жыл бұрын

    What a brilliant episode. I re-waxed my chain today in preparation for an event coming up so this was really useful. Josh was so knowledgeable. Thanks guys!!!

  • @nickpatten5263
    @nickpatten5263 Жыл бұрын

    Brilliant GCN Tech Show. Always love Josh's vast knowledge and way of explaining things to us non-techy bike people. Really enjoyed this show and learnt a lot, thank you.

  • @gcntech

    @gcntech

    Жыл бұрын

    Thanks Nick! Glad you found it informative!

  • Жыл бұрын

    That is a really educating and at the same time entertaining show - 10 points for that!

  • @richchilds8173
    @richchilds8173 Жыл бұрын

    Josh is a very intelligent and knowledgeable guest. He can explain tech in a way that non-tech savvy people can understand. I love the way he thinks before he speaks, but is so smart, he can put together his dialog quickly to keep the show moving.

  • @glennmorgan8691
    @glennmorgan8691 Жыл бұрын

    I've been using silca ss drip and the hot melt wax for 2 yrs on my electric mountain bikes and watched all Josh's videos with all kinds of tips and tricks and absolutely love it!!! Josh's new wax x is claimed to go 800kms between waxings I think that would be awesome for those ultra mileage races!!! And the new chain striper from josh has your chain ready to go into the wax pot in 10 mins takeing all the fuss out of waxing its brilliant!!!

  • @flurblewibble7735
    @flurblewibble7735 Жыл бұрын

    What a brilliant guest - really knowledgeable, but has a knack of explaining things so even mere mortals like me can understand it. Superb insights and explanations.

  • @redalert2834
    @redalert2834 Жыл бұрын

    Hot melt wax has one VERY BIG disadvantage not mentioned here - it does not waterproof the chain. If you ride in rain or leave your bike outdoors exposed to dew, beware of links rusting internally and seizing up - not only increasing friction but meaning you need to replace the chain. It can happen very quickly.

  • @ISWYDTOR
    @ISWYDTOR Жыл бұрын

    Been on the fence about hot wax, but the information here is giving me the confidence that it is the right choice for me, great video.

  • @chrisralston2654
    @chrisralston2654 Жыл бұрын

    Josh is a fantastic interview. So knowledgeable…and he keeps it interesting.

  • @thsaintful
    @thsaintful Жыл бұрын

    Josh is a really good guest for the show! Very interesting for bike nerds like me. He has convinced me to switch to hotwaxing my MTB chains from now on. Now on to find a cheap crockpot.... if only Silca sold a simple one

  • @JSquare1
    @JSquare16 ай бұрын

    Loved this video, and Josh is always brimming with not only great inside information tips and stories, but the ability to convey his technical knowledge in easily understandable -- and entertaining -- bites. Always look forward to videos where he is present. That Silca products such as the wax lubes, cleaners, and protectors are the best I have used only adds weight, for me, to what he says.

  • @stephendenagy3396
    @stephendenagy3396 Жыл бұрын

    This was great, definitely helped understand the challenges. And…will work harder to keep chain clean and lubed!

  • @gcntech

    @gcntech

    Жыл бұрын

    Great! It's always nice to have a well maintained bike 👌

  • @adam__smith

    @adam__smith

    Жыл бұрын

    I've been using drip wax for a couple of months now, and one thing that I appreciate about it is the fact that the chain / cogs are still super clean. It's a faff at the start, but no cleaning required after that - just lubing.

  • @chawley52
    @chawley52 Жыл бұрын

    Switching from wet lube to hot wax completely changed my gravel bike experience...for the better! And, eliminating the tedious and time consuming greasy drivetrain cleaning is a huge benefit.

  • @_MrSnrub
    @_MrSnrub Жыл бұрын

    I have a Priority Apollo (got a supernice from you lads), with a belt drive, and knowing that the efficiency loss is keeping me back isn't great, but its a killer system and a great bike. The fact that belt drive bikes are great for commuters and just for those too lazy to keep up with maintenance is actually a huge win, just rinse and go basically. But I do respect that they are not racing machines, especially with the added weight that an IGH adds to the system. But they are certainly an interesting option. Would be seriously interesting to see an IGH paired with a chain/derailleur for ultra crazy gearing too.

  • @henrybikeman

    @henrybikeman

    Жыл бұрын

    That’s been done, but sadly withdrawn by the main igh makers due to lack of demand.

  • @peterwillson1355

    @peterwillson1355

    Жыл бұрын

    BROMPTON do it....Its how the 3 speed becomes a six speed.....

  • @brudegare
    @brudegare Жыл бұрын

    Josh tried hard not to call out Muc Off when discussing the "worst" dry lubes lol.

  • @nsambafrancis8033

    @nsambafrancis8033

    Жыл бұрын

    Hahaha

  • @larrylem3582

    @larrylem3582

    Жыл бұрын

    I just used mine today. I have to finish the bottle before I can buy anything else!

  • @brudegare

    @brudegare

    Жыл бұрын

    @@larrylem3582 it might cost you more in chain life to finish that bottle than to just buy a good wet lube!

  • @sebbelito2975

    @sebbelito2975

    Жыл бұрын

    Good enough for an indoor trainer

  • @robertmcfadyen9156

    @robertmcfadyen9156

    11 ай бұрын

    Zero Friction Cycling from Crafters , South Australia have made a good clear position on Muc Off's products , their claims as well as credibility . I don't use them but have seen them at camping and sports store Anaconda .

  • @peterfranzjr.1190
    @peterfranzjr.1190 Жыл бұрын

    Bertrand seemed like the 3rd wheel on a date with the way Ollie was staring deep into Josh's eyes 😂

  • @AlanJeffreyMcClainJr
    @AlanJeffreyMcClainJr Жыл бұрын

    Alex is a genius! Even if self supported just stash an extra chain and install! Brilliant!

  • @Stefanosinf
    @Stefanosinf Жыл бұрын

    Such an amazing episode!!! Thanks!!!

  • @gcntech

    @gcntech

    Жыл бұрын

    Thanks! Glad you liked it

  • @joegamas1194
    @joegamas1194 Жыл бұрын

    I absolutely love geeking out and learning about this topics, Yes Yes Yes more please, what an awesome video, thanks GCN

  • @richardhutchings1980
    @richardhutchings1980 Жыл бұрын

    Ollie got very excited about the potential marginal gains in track cycling. The mention the UK track team got his attention

  • @theprofitmohamhead1268
    @theprofitmohamhead1268 Жыл бұрын

    I made a lubricant cocktail of Mobile 1 10/30 wt, Teflon powder, graphite, moly lube, and couple others. Seems to work great!

  • @svenmkrause
    @svenmkrause Жыл бұрын

    Great video! Could you do a short piece on reapplying hot wax. How to pre-clean and potential pitfalls. Thanks

  • @ShawnIsBatman
    @ShawnIsBatman Жыл бұрын

    Congrats to Ollie for getting the shout-out from Josh on the Silca Marginal Gains podcast for "wax shaming" pro teams in a recent video!

  • @ericcoxtcu8037
    @ericcoxtcu8037 Жыл бұрын

    I can't believe I watched that whole 30 minute video and was surprised when it ended. Excellent information. I freely admit the only reason I don't do wax immersion is the time involved. One of these days I will have to give it a try.

  • @gcntech

    @gcntech

    Жыл бұрын

    How about a drop on wax? 👉kzread.info/dash/bejne/hIx-vJKQf9WZg6g.html

  • @gcntech

    @gcntech

    Жыл бұрын

    Great to hear you enjoyed it! Would you like to see us dive deeper into any subject?

  • @ericcoxtcu8037

    @ericcoxtcu8037

    Жыл бұрын

    @@gcntech That's what I do - I degrease new chains and use a drip wax. I keep my drive train pretty clean; the drip wax has improved chain longevity and general drivetrain cleanliness. The big difference is on my gravel bike.

  • @philstephens1942

    @philstephens1942

    Жыл бұрын

    Maybe the world will change for you regarding this aspect very soon?

  • @chrisridesbicycles
    @chrisridesbicycles Жыл бұрын

    Great in-depth talk that should have a follow-up Q/A.

  • @frankharradence732
    @frankharradence732 Жыл бұрын

    A very enlightening and watchable video; more like this please.

  • @gcntech

    @gcntech

    Жыл бұрын

    Enlightened and watchable... that's GCN tech 😉

  • @donschloth5785
    @donschloth5785 Жыл бұрын

    Big fan of SILCA and Josh. Been using their products for quite awhile.

  • @phenofinder9145
    @phenofinder9145 Жыл бұрын

    I keep 3 chains in rotation. I always have a waxed chain on deck.

  • @kokonanana1

    @kokonanana1

    Жыл бұрын

    Started doing this in the 90s!

  • @phenofinder9145

    @phenofinder9145

    Жыл бұрын

    @@kokonanana1 respect ✊

  • @thecrazyhatchemist5051
    @thecrazyhatchemist5051 Жыл бұрын

    I love the science! Bring on more videos on the physics of cycling! Funny this is coming from a Chemistry teacher...

  • @kenneththomas3558
    @kenneththomas3558 Жыл бұрын

    Great video GCN. Thanks.

  • @Lestat1795
    @Lestat1795 Жыл бұрын

    Great episode. Thanks!😊

  • @SirGeorgeRoss
    @SirGeorgeRoss Жыл бұрын

    Josh…the best guest/sponsor on the show - who else gives kudos to their competitors? Great stuff, Josh!

  • @gcntech

    @gcntech

    Жыл бұрын

    We love having Josh with us 🙌 Always smashes it!

  • @RobinT346
    @RobinT346 Жыл бұрын

    Some great science nerdery going on here. I love it!

  • @tonyboughman8050
    @tonyboughman80506 ай бұрын

    Kudos to the hosts for keeping their mouths shut and letting the expert speak. Good job and informative video. I will change my lubing protocol to protect the expensive 12-speed cassette and chain.

  • @edwardjednacz1641
    @edwardjednacz1641 Жыл бұрын

    Truly useful information

  • @aleq
    @aleq Жыл бұрын

    Loved it! ❤🎉

  • @LarryGraham7
    @LarryGraham7 Жыл бұрын

    I'm a bit late, yes please for deep dive shows, and thank you.

  • @4nz-nl
    @4nz-nl Жыл бұрын

    5:30 it's very well possible to put a chain into a casing. Somehow, we just chose to not do this on our road bikes. One of the nice sides of riding a velomobile is that not only the chainwheel, but also the chain and the cassette have a much longer life due to the whole system being inside the bike. It's biggest enemy is your own sweat in that environment, but 30.000 km on one chainset is not unheard of.

  • @alexanderakins5777
    @alexanderakins5777 Жыл бұрын

    Yayyyy more Josh !!

  • @BooklessT
    @BooklessT20 күн бұрын

    I worked for a company that made the "active" material that went into drilling and grinding components. Cubic Boron Nitride was up there as extremely abrasive and not that far away from synthetic diamond which is the hardest naturally occurring material.

  • @user-rp6zq2og4s
    @user-rp6zq2og4s Жыл бұрын

    Great video, need more deep dives for the other internal parts of a bike

  • @gcntech

    @gcntech

    Жыл бұрын

    Where should we head next? Brakes? Tyres? Frames? 🚲

  • @robertmcfadyen9156
    @robertmcfadyen915611 ай бұрын

    I am currently using Steve from Ozcycle's formulation and it is cost effective and has seen good feedback from several of my clients .

  • @GilbertTang
    @GilbertTang Жыл бұрын

    I often wonder if, for potentially easier application, it would be worthwhile shaping the wax beads into a cylinder that would fit in a typical glue gun. The problem then, of course, is the melted wax,has comparatively very low viscosity and it wouldn’t necessarily flow well out of the glue gun. But still, something purpose-built might actually work very nicely for this. And it need not even be glue gun style applicator. I also think a lot about those hand-crank chain cleaners. What about one that heats up the wax and allows you to apply the wax in a similar fashion (that is, hand-cranking it while the chain on the bike)? It’s definitely a more complicated problem than it seems, and there are certainly benefits to removing the chain for degreasing and cleaning. Plus it might not actually be substantially better than existing drip-on solutions (even the best process is only marginally better). But I suspect the heat would allow for deeper penetration overall. 🤷‍♂️

  • @BRMCaptChaos
    @BRMCaptChaos Жыл бұрын

    Hands up, i was totally not into waxed chains, until i tried it. Reasons were using a slow cooker, faff and space, surely a wax supplier can offer a boil in the bag solution? But the benefits are blindingly obvious at the next clean. I cant say i've noticed the improvement in watts, or recognise when the chain needs redoing, but its clean. And thats cool.

  • @cb6866
    @cb6866 Жыл бұрын

    Thanks Abner , Oscar , and Josh...I learned a lot , but I'm OAF . I did get hot wax , a melter like the "A" man , and I've done one chain so far . I think the chain swap is a good idea as well , but...... I did play contact sports .

  • @ItsMe-ex2vu
    @ItsMe-ex2vu7 ай бұрын

    Josh really is incredible.

  • @KarlosEPM
    @KarlosEPM Жыл бұрын

    Excellent episode!

  • @gcntech

    @gcntech

    Жыл бұрын

    Thank you!

  • @kennethward9530
    @kennethward9530 Жыл бұрын

    GPS rerouted me around construction a couple weeks ago taking me right past Josh’s place of business, I waved hello on behalf of GCN watchers.

  • @ElevationEveryWeekend
    @ElevationEveryWeekend Жыл бұрын

    I have a lot of bikes, but have started the transition to the Silca drip wax. I ride varied conditions here in Colorado, including winter fat biking, so far so good. Eventually will go the immersion wax route more than likely.

  • @gcntech

    @gcntech

    Жыл бұрын

    Do you think that drop wax is the best of both worlds? 👀

  • @ElevationEveryWeekend

    @ElevationEveryWeekend

    Жыл бұрын

    @@gcntech I have it on two brand new Borealis Fat Bikes I am testing here in Colorado. So far the Silca drip wax has been good both in some snow riding, and now in the dusty dirt we have. No black grinding paste after many rides! We’ll see how it does when I pop the chains off to thoroughly clean, and then reapply the drip wax. I am about to clean and add it to some others I have been using another “dry” lube on, which does have black residue apparent.

  • @matteo.ceriotti
    @matteo.ceriotti Жыл бұрын

    A couple of shots at Muc-off there! And yeah, no more Muc-off bottles and tools on the bench behind!

  • @charlespeters7220
    @charlespeters7220 Жыл бұрын

    I use CRC industrial chain and wire lube. The lube has a dry appearance when the drive is stationary and wet when in operation.

  • @CarlosParadaP
    @CarlosParadaP Жыл бұрын

    Watching episodes like this makes me feel smarter hahaha Just like Alex, I didn't understand half of it but is cool anyway !!

  • @janwillemkuilenburg7561
    @janwillemkuilenburg7561 Жыл бұрын

    Hugo, you are so smart!!!

  • @AlfieVLOG0
    @AlfieVLOG0 Жыл бұрын

    Super interesting!

  • @full-english
    @full-english Жыл бұрын

    Listening to Josh’s marginal Gains podcast has opened my eyes to what I once thought of as inconsequential to now realizing just how much these little things have real advantages.. Ps. Is it the audio guys day off?

  • @rafaeldegiacomoaraujo8778
    @rafaeldegiacomoaraujo8778 Жыл бұрын

    Finally a good episode on chain lube on GCN! No mucoff BS anymore.

  • @fredsirvalo1904
    @fredsirvalo1904 Жыл бұрын

    I didn't take my chain for granted yesterday when I somehow broke a it half-way through a 100K ride. Thankfully, a nearby LBS was open and replaced the broken chain. Score one for LBS mechanics. 🎉

  • @seppilin351
    @seppilin351 Жыл бұрын

    I just bought some 50nM Hexagonal Boron Nitride. I am thinking about adding it to my Silca Hot Melt Wax. Any ideas on how much to add?

  • @larsthorderson423
    @larsthorderson423 Жыл бұрын

    I would love to see a deep dive on bearing types (steel vs ceramic) and oils vs greases. Seen some data suggesting bearing type is irrelevant but lubrication type is the key.

  • @TimWilliamsBikeRun

    @TimWilliamsBikeRun

    Жыл бұрын

    I know he's not for everyone, but Hambini has at least one compelling video that sheds light on the nearly non-existent benefit of ceramic bearings for cycling applications. The low rotational speeds that come into play in cycling seem to not bring the benefits of ceramic into play. But do some research on sites that provide factual evidence and settle the matter for yourself.

  • @johannesschneider2508
    @johannesschneider2508 Жыл бұрын

    A very in-depth view on drivetrain efficiency and lots of tipps that I took with me. One topic that I was wondering about is: If you start with a hot-waxed chain on an ultra event and you ad some wet lube later on, how do you proceed with chain maintenance after the event? Just cleaning and adding fresh hot-wax? What are your thoughts on that?

  • @emmabird9745
    @emmabird9745 Жыл бұрын

    I don't race but I've been riding wax since last october, and I wouldn't want to go back to oil etc. Lower friction means faster, but it also means less effort for your speed so you can go further. As a bonus, there's less mess all round the bottom bracket etc.

  • @flynnstone3580
    @flynnstone3580 Жыл бұрын

    I've been using Lemon Pledge furniture polish on my chains and sprockets for years now. It's also a good lubricant for the cables and other mechanisms. Great cleaner for the frame and tires, just don't polish the seat😮

  • @peterago1082
    @peterago1082 Жыл бұрын

    Silca & zero friction cycling made me a believer

  • @richchilds8173
    @richchilds8173 Жыл бұрын

    #askgcntech How many times can you press a chain pin in and out before you should consider a master link designed to be removed/reinstalled for the process of cleaning and waxing your chain?

  • @eriklindskog1841
    @eriklindskog1841 Жыл бұрын

    For racing, yes for now chains are likely to remain. For utility bikes I would not be surprised if many move to e-bikes with belt drive.

  • @gcntech

    @gcntech

    Жыл бұрын

    It'll certainly be interesting to see! Have you seen our 'Reinventing the wheel' doc on GCN+? 👉 gcn.eu/7DA

  • @mellissanash7517
    @mellissanash7517 Жыл бұрын

    He's right Zero friction' is great, a bit dry but great. Plus, the Zero Friction guy rides road, gravel, and MTB.

  • @kylieon51ststreet71

    @kylieon51ststreet71

    Жыл бұрын

    Zero Friction Cycling aka Adam Kerin is a racist. Did you hear what he said about Hambini? ZFC also links to anti police websites on his youtube channel. He charges 200AUD for a dura ace chain dipped in parrafin wax and 'special powders' lol. He isnt even a good rider.

  • @kaltonian
    @kaltonian Жыл бұрын

    yeah man...great in depth upload, i'm a bit gutted to here that using dry lube is not as beneficial as one would think, i wax my chains 70 - 80%³ & dry lube the rest thinking less sticky then less pick up of dirt, oh well looks like i should wax 100% of the time, thanks guys very interesting

  • @polyrhythmia
    @polyrhythmia Жыл бұрын

    The use of more compact drivetrains does cause the chain to bend a bit more. Been using paraffin for forty years now. I would run two or three chains switching between them. Narrower chains don't seem to last as long. Lubrication has to be done more frequently, but with master link, it's not that bad. The Crock Pot I have takes a good hour and a half to melt the wax, but the temperature is bound to be much safer than direct melting.

  • @marcomongke3116
    @marcomongke3116 Жыл бұрын

    There are spray based chain wax out there. How good are they?

  • @chrismadge7292
    @chrismadge7292 Жыл бұрын

    Good video. Drive chains have in some ways got more inefficient in the quest for ever larger range of gears. The smallest sprocket on the back has dropped from 13 down to 10 teeth introducing inefficiencies in the highest gears. Ironic given the market for oversize pulley wheels.

  • @espenrosenquist6683
    @espenrosenquist668311 ай бұрын

    Curious to know more about molten wax in cold and salty environments. Winter commuting eats a cassette and chain per season with wet lube.

  • @kpizzle1985
    @kpizzle1985 Жыл бұрын

    How do I know when to reapply my liquid wax if a noisy chain is not a cue?

  • @thomasdundon4093
    @thomasdundon4093 Жыл бұрын

    I guess my 3-pack of Finish Line wasn’t the purchase I was hoping for. 😂

  • @ebikescrapper3925
    @ebikescrapper3925 Жыл бұрын

    I am surprised Shimano and SRAM have not bought a belt drive company or introduced their own version. It would have been a good move with the CUES system and also making the Alfine hub fit thru axles

  • @gcntech

    @gcntech

    Жыл бұрын

    It would be interesting to see in the future! For some more tech innovation, why not check out our 'Reinventing the wheel' doc on GCN+ 👉 gcn.eu/7DA

  • @davidwilkinson9792
    @davidwilkinson9792 Жыл бұрын

    I absolutely love this nerdy shit with legit nerds. Chapeu 👏 Thank you x

  • @gcntech

    @gcntech

    Жыл бұрын

    That's what this channel's all about, right? 😉

  • @tasdrouille
    @tasdrouille Жыл бұрын

    Well Josh, since there are efficiencies to be found with larger surface areas in the 1/8" world I guess Silca has to come up with a chain! Because right now, nothing beats the best 3/32.

  • @tomglista
    @tomglista Жыл бұрын

    I've been using a Teflon lube for years. What are your thoughts on it?

  • @Ruggine85
    @Ruggine85 Жыл бұрын

    21:15 #askgcntech I am using Silca hot wax and frequently topping it up with their lube, I have seen that many lube drops tend to slip very quickly downwards avoiding the gap they should fill. My current workaround is to keep a finger under the chain and every 5-6 pins rub them and try to get it where it needs to go. Do you have any suggestions on how to make more effective? Thanks!

  • @SILCAVelo

    @SILCAVelo

    Жыл бұрын

    The finger trick is a good one, also, try lubricating the top of the chain right as it is about to engage the 2nd or 3rd largest rear cog while pedaling backwards.. this zone sees the chain going from straight at and angle to the cog to having to deflect to engage the cog which changes the chain gap from a thin slot to more of a triangle.. the lube will penetrate better right at that moment. Also, be sure to shake the bottle really well before using as it will give you a slightly thicker and more homogeneous texture that flows more slowly.

  • @jeffreylee5770
    @jeffreylee5770 Жыл бұрын

    Wouldn't chain guards, those old and simple coverings, help reduce the amount of dirt that gets into the chains?

  • @gcntech

    @gcntech

    Жыл бұрын

    Possibly! I'm sure someone out there has tested this at some point but could be a possible video for the future!

  • @pablolopez584
    @pablolopez584 Жыл бұрын

    34 min of a drivetrain efficiency deep dive talk? Let's gooo for it! 😁

  • @gcntech

    @gcntech

    Жыл бұрын

    Did you enjoy? 👀

  • @pablolopez584

    @pablolopez584

    Жыл бұрын

    @@gcntech As I'd say in Spanish..Like a pig in a puddle! 😂

  • @MS-bw7yt
    @MS-bw7yt Жыл бұрын

    Flat top SRAM chain on the thumbnail for a video on chain efficiency, well..... :D

  • @nsambafrancis8033
    @nsambafrancis8033 Жыл бұрын

    Thanks very much, I live somewhere where i can't access the modern lubes , can i use the sowing machine lube on my chain or car engine oil ? .what best lube can i use

  • @richardggeorge

    @richardggeorge

    Жыл бұрын

    Candle wax (pure paraffin) is the main ingredient in these hot melt wax lubes. It's all I use, and I can buy anything

  • @matthewdutton119
    @matthewdutton119 Жыл бұрын

    Awesome job. Great questions. Very informative.

  • @gcntech

    @gcntech

    Жыл бұрын

    Thanks Matthew!

  • @Sir-Kay
    @Sir-Kay Жыл бұрын

    Some OG cyclist from Australia OZ rides or whatever his name is once brought upa good idea where he wet-lubes his chains then drip wax on it to act as a sort of sealant. Anybody ever tried this and what are your detailed take away from it?

  • @ericcsaba8779
    @ericcsaba8779 Жыл бұрын

    Have you seen or used DuPont Multi Use High Performance Lubricant with non-Stick Ceramic. I have heard this is the best lubricant out there. Will you check it out and see what you think??

  • @pennyblue6372
    @pennyblue6372 Жыл бұрын

    dear silca, just an idea on your sealant. can‘t you sell the carbon particles separately so we can put them dry in the open tire and the sealant then into the open valve?

  • @SILCAVelo

    @SILCAVelo

    Жыл бұрын

    Thanks Penny, unfortunately, loose, individual carbon fibers are much finer and lighter than a human hair and the slightest puff of air or slip of the hand could put thousands of them airborne when working with the material. We even looked at putting the fibers in a sort of 'Tide Pod' that would dissolve, but the real key to the manufacturing is coating each tiny fiber with the sealant as the two are introduced.. we continue to work on innovating in this space, but yeah, this one is a really hard problem to solve!

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