Electric mountain bikes are known for amplifying rider power, often adding 250 watts or more, which significantly increases the stress and wear on the bike chain. Recognizing this unique challenge, Finish Line developed a dedicated e-bike Chain Lube. Skepticism is natural with any specialized product, but the promise of reducing chain wear on e-bikes is compelling. This review dives into the real-world performance of Finish Line’s e-bike Chain Lube to see if it lives up to the hype.
Understanding E-bike Chain Wear
The necessity for an e-bike specific chain lubricant stems from the increased demands placed on e-bike components. While exact figures from Shimano or SRAM regarding the amplified chain wear are scarce, both brands utilize specialized coatings on their e-bike chains to mitigate wear. Despite these efforts, e-bike chains are still prone to faster degradation due to the higher torque and power they endure compared to traditional bikes. Finish Line’s e-bike Chain Lube is formulated to address this very issue, promising enhanced protection and longevity for e-bike chains.
Finish Line E-Bike Chain Lube: Initial Use
Testing of the Finish Line e-bike Chain Lube began with straightforward, real-world application. The approach was practical rather than strictly scientific: riding an e-bike until chain noise or dryness indicated the need for lubrication. Re-application followed these indicators, with a thorough cleaning and degreasing of the chain performed every third lubrication cycle.
Finish Line suggests that optimal performance requires two to three initial applications to establish a sufficient lubricant layer, after which it should last for up to 200 miles per application. However, initial testing revealed a different reality, particularly in challenging conditions.
Performance in Wet Conditions: A Test of Tenacity
Contrary to the 200-mile claim, the Finish Line e-bike Chain Lube required application before each ride. In particularly wet conditions, even mid-ride re-application seemed necessary. The lube’s semi-dry nature, designed for year-round use, appeared to be its primary limitation in the consistently wet UK winter conditions experienced during testing. Its thin consistency, while aiding application and grime removal due to its low surface tension carrier, also meant it was quickly depleted in wet environments. Finish Line acknowledges this trade-off, noting the formula is less viscous than a traditional wet lube. While a semi-dry formula makes sense for versatility, riders frequently encountering wet conditions might find a dedicated wet lube more suitable, especially on a high-torque e-bike where durability outweighs marginal efficiency gains.
Application Advantage: The No Drip Chain Luber
Despite the challenges in wet weather durability, the Finish Line E-Bike Chain Lube showcased a positive aspect when used with Finish Line’s No Drip Chain Luber. E-bikes cannot be backpedaled for traditional lube application, but the Chain Luber effectively addresses this. By rubbing the lube directly onto the chain and allowing it to soak in, application becomes clean and efficient. Although priced at £7.99 for an empty bottle, the Chain Luber proves to be a worthwhile tool for e-bike maintenance, simplifying the lubrication process.
Conclusion: Balancing Act for E-bike Chain Care
The Finish Line Bike E-Bike Chain Lube is a product designed to tackle the specific demands of electric bike drivetrains. While its semi-dry formula may compromise durability in consistently wet conditions, requiring more frequent applications than advertised, it offers ease of use, especially when paired with the No Drip Chain Luber. For riders in drier climates, or those prioritizing cleanliness and ease of application, this lube may be a suitable choice. However, for e-bike enthusiasts frequently riding in wet and muddy conditions, exploring a more viscous wet lube might provide superior chain protection and longevity. Ultimately, selecting the right chain lube depends on individual riding conditions and priorities.
Details
Size: 120ml
Contact: madison.co.uk
