Chain cleaning

Muc-Off’s water soluble degreaser is a very proficient solvent based cleanser that makes short work of accumulated grease and grime and to that end makes a very handy workshop companion. The fact it easily washes away without obvious trace or harmful effect is a real bonus-especially if you're working on a patio or more ornate surface. However, while in a pinch it will tackle headset overhaul, it struggles with waterproof marine greases and care is required on delicate finishes.

Green Oil’s sweet smelling chain cleaner is made from a blend of natural, citrus based ingredients and is every bit as effective as those derived from petrochemicals without damaging the environment or bank balances into the bargain. Diluted with 900ml of fresh water, it also produces a litre of the firm’s bike wash. Better still, all that’s left behind is the sweet smell of oranges.

Nothing brings out the cynical grump in me more than the miraculous promises made by bike cleaning products and the instructions on Muc-Off's Chain Cleaner set my snake-oil-ometer pinging all the way up to 11.