Hot Melt Chain Waxing ($50 - New chain and drivetrain)
-Dampens chain vibration
-Eliminates chain grease smudges
-Reduces drivetrain friction & wear
Quieter. Cleaner. Faster.
Step 1: We strip the factory grease off a new chain OR strip oil & dirt from a used chain.
*Used drivetrains require a refresh service ($80) to strip oil & dirt from the cassette, chainring(s), and derailleur pulley wheels - every component the chain will make contact with.
Step 2: We bring specially formulated wax pellets to the ideal temperature for coating and adhering to the chain's internal surfaces.
Step 3: We submerse the chain into the hot liquid wax, and reposition a couple of times to allow for trapped air to escape so that wax can fill into every gap.
Step 4: We lift chain out of the pot to bring the wax back to air temperature for solidifying.
Excess wax drips off the outer surface, but the correct melt temperature prevents wax from dripping out of the chain's internal gaps. *The chain is stiff at this point, so before it's ready to install on the bike we loosen it up by articulating each pin through a full range of motion. Once installed, it will continue breaking in for about 15-20 miles while shedding non-essential wax adhesion.
How to get the most from your newly waxed chain
RIDE!
Hot melt wax will remain adhered to the chain for up to one month of consistent riding in dry conditions. It will flake off the chain slowly, and the drivetrain will only need light wipe downs after each ride to stay pristine.
For consistent riding in wet conditions, an additive is melted in with the wax to increase longevity and reduce washout. Additionally, Silca's Synergetic lube can be applied directly to a waxed chain to increase durability in cold/wet conditions. Please make a request for this application if these conditions apply to your rides.
Follow-up step: We apply drip wax to the chain every one month of riding after the initial hot melt application. It is essentially the same wax emulsified in water, for easier application than hot melt, but less total coverage. As the water evaporates, the wax begins to harden, and the chain is ready to ride 24 hours later. It is recommended to repeat the full hot melt wax every 3 months.
Drip wax application ($25/month)
Bottles of Silca Super Secret drip wax are available for purchase in our shop to maintain your waxed chain at home - reducing the cost/month to stay quiet, clean and fast!