Muc-Off’s new formula works fast and will have greater appeal amongst the thin tyre fraternity thanks to more efficient removal of road grime. However, while certainly saving time, it’s still prone to leaving a streaky finish and despite boasting green credentials, citrus-based cleansers remain one step ahead.
It couldn’t be simpler to use and good time management is central to getting the best results. Give the contents a quick shake before spraying liberally over the bike. Leave the formula to fizz away at the gunk while you fill a bucket or two of tepid water. Accumulated filth might need persuasion from a medium/soft brush but there’s no benefit in extending the waiting times- this simply results in a streaky finish.
After five minutes give encrusted areas such as under the saddle a good tickling with the brush, dipping in the bucket as required before rising thoroughly. I was impressed at how effortlessly the grime slithered from the frame and onto the concrete below leaving a curiously appealing puddle. Buzzwords come and go but the new nano tech formula apparently employs a super invasive technology claimed to accelerate cleaning while protecting against corrosion. Wer’e guessing this means the particles of the cleaner’s active ingredient are very very small. Whatever, it seems to work.
Credit where it’s due: it is very effective. But it is fairly aggressive, so we’d recommend latex or other gloves when you’re working. Secondly, the Bike Cleaner could potentially disrupt grease and other wanted lubrication in headsets, bottom brackets and hubs in particular, so avoid spraying directly in these areas.
Verdict
Good workshop staple for the time poor but observe directions religiously
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road.cc test report
Make and model: Muc-Off Fast Action Bike Cleaner
Size tested: 1L
Tell us what the product is for, and who it’s aimed at. What do the manufacturers say about it? How does that compare to your own feelings about it?
Muc-Off’s fast action bike cleaner does exactly what it says on the tin and this formula works better on road grime than previous incarnations. However, I have some small reservations over nanotech’s invasive technology which could potentially strip seals and bearings.
Tell us some more about the technical aspects of the product?
500ml trigger spray. Once applied requires five minutes standing time before rinising clean. Nano tech formula claimed to bring sparkle and preserve painted, plated and bare metals.
Works well on all kinds of grime from cow pat to chain lube.However, some citrus based cleaners are equally effective with less concerns over long term exposure to skin etc.
Some reports suggest long term effects/exposure upon human health give grounds for concern-wear gloves if used regularly.
Tell us how the product performed overall when used for its designed purpose
There’s no doubt Muc-Off’s rapid bike cleaner makes short work of the usual suspects-especially mud and dung but it also seems much better on brake dust,spray and other grime more commonly associated with winter road riding.
Tell us what you particularly liked about the product
Speed and efficiency.
Tell us what you particularly disliked about the product
Slight concerns over the potential long-term effects on nano-tech.
Did you enjoy using the product? Yes
Would you consider buying the product? Possibly
Would you recommend the product to a friend? Generally, yes
About the tester
Age: 35 Height: 1m 81 Weight: 70 kilos
I usually ride: Rough Stuff Tourer Based around 4130 Univega mtb Frameset My best bike is: 1955 Holdsworth Road Path and several others including cross & traditional road
I’ve been riding for: Over 20 years I ride: Most days I would class myself as: Experienced
I regularly do the following types of riding: cyclo cross, commuting, touring, fixed/singlespeed, mtb,
2 thoughts on “Muc-Off Fast Action Bike Cleaner”
If its aggressive enough that
If its aggressive enough that I need to wear gloves I am not spraying it on my paintwork.
I use this stuff on my bike
I use this stuff on my bike and alloy wheels, it’s awesome. But nanotech cleaner? Utter marketing bollocks, it’s Nitrilotriacetic acid which is a mild biodegradable industrial cleaner and probably costs all of 1/2 a pence a bottle to make.
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