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Oiling the bike

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Old 08-20-17, 02:23 AM
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Martin Genet
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Oiling the bike

What sort of vegetable oil can I use to oil the chain etc. Is canola oil ok?
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Old 08-20-17, 02:24 AM
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What sort of vegetable oil can I use to oil the chain etc. Is canola oil ok?
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Old 08-20-17, 03:01 AM
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No.
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Old 08-20-17, 04:31 AM
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Veggie oils create problems without benefits. They are likely to gum up and will attract dirt. Beyond that, you'll find viscosity, oxidation, and low temperature issues. For the most, veggie oils are the go-to lube in situations where mineral oils may contaminate.

On a bike, I'd only use it to put on grips - although I prefer alcohol. And, BTW, not the drinking kind.

Last edited by Tony P.; 08-20-17 at 04:37 AM.
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Old 08-20-17, 09:05 AM
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Originally Posted by Martin Genet
What sort of vegetable oil can I use to oil the chain etc. Is canola oil ok?
Just out of curiosity, why would you want to use vegetable oil? It is probably not adequate as lubricant for bicycle applications.
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Old 08-20-17, 12:52 PM
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Canola oil is fine but definitely stay away from peanut oil as many chains seem to be allergic.


(troll oil also works pretty well)
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Old 08-20-17, 02:00 PM
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Try Oil of Olay. It'll keep your chain running smooth and make it look younger than it really is, and make all the other trolls jealous of your pretty bike. (Some pink streamers at the end of the handlebars would look nice, too!).
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Old 08-20-17, 08:42 PM
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In case it's not a troll, check with your local bike shop.
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Old 08-20-17, 09:25 PM
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aren't ya oil being a bit tough on da guy?

friends of mine many many moons ago tried some cooking oil as chain lube and it caused a great mess, super hard to clean off. Doesn't seem to be worth it.
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Old 08-20-17, 10:59 PM
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I have found myself having to use 3-in-1 oil on two separate occasions during the last 20 years. Once was on a tour in South Texas. Once was in Ireland. It's a friggin' mess to use anything other than dedicated chain lube. Other oils will get you home, but its pretty nasty.
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Old 08-21-17, 01:27 AM
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Some mechanics say chain cleanliness is more important than lube type, even water can reduce friction a lot. Vegetable oil is not optimal but OTOH pretty easy to wash away with detergent/degreaser.
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Old 08-21-17, 05:05 AM
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Let's turn this into a best chain lube thread. I'll start: NFS is the best lube.
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Old 08-21-17, 05:11 AM
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a wind up merchant me thinks.
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