Q&A for How to Lube a Bicycle Chain

Machine oils like a 3-in-1 oil are sufficient to use as a wet lubricant. Often, these oils are very light and low-viscosity, requiring more frequent application. When in doubt, always use a bike-specific lubricant.

I can't speak specifically to this lubricant, but it appears that B'laster multipurpose lubricant is sufficient to use as a wet lubricant, as long as it doesn't have any penetrative properties. Penetrants usually dry sticky, attracting more grime as you use the chain. When in doubt, use a bike-specific lubricant.

Yes, but it will pick up a lot of dirt and need to be cleaned regularly.

No, you cannot. It's too thin to be applied on automotive parts and bikes.

Yes, but it will pick up more dust. I suggest using machine oil instead.

Some lubes do smell.

No, this will not lubricate the chain and will just pick up dirt.

Both work, but grease picks up more dirt than if you used oil.

Yes, this will work.

It's best to use lubricants designed specifically for use on bike chains. Quality bike lubes will improve the performance of your bike chain and prevent it from wearing out early.

You can use a small amount of it. However, it's expensive, so it's best to use basic lubricating oil.

Yes, B'laster can be used on bike chains, but it's a light oil. Consider 3-in-1 oil, or better yet, an oil that's specifically designed to be used on bike chains and gears.

Yes, that's what I use, and it works great. The oil is thin enough, yet stays put. Just keep the chain clean during maintenance.

Grease stays for a long time, but will attract dirt and cause a buildup or grime. It is best if you use gear oil or machine oil. Bike-specific lubes are even better.

Excess means the left over or remainder lubricant. If it is dripping or the chain looks to be overly coated, then you should wipe it down. That's what it means.

Engine oil will run it shorter than standard bicycle lube. It's better to use ordinary chain lube because it won't run down the chain as quickly.

You could, but this will probably pick up sand and other road grit as you ride, which wears your chain and cassette. It’s better to use a lighter machine oil and wipe off the excess.

No it is for cleaning. Spray this cleaning the dirt from the chain. Apply machine oil/ siloxane oil for lubricating.

It might be possible with small amounts since a motorcycle chain is large than a mountain bike chain. You don't want to get overloaded due to centrifugal force if the substance gets on your tires and rims––what a mess. You can try WD-40 and/or 3-in-1 oil.

Olive oil. It won’t last as long, but it does work. (However, it will gather more dust.)