Chain-L High Mileage Formula Chain Lube

Chain L is a rich, old school wet lube aimed at elite riders churning away marathon mileages and it's as close to fit and forget chain oil as you’re likely to find.

Virgin chains with the factory lick of water displacer are ready primed but take used ones to the chain bath to make sure you don't make a distressingly efficient grinding paste from the grit on your chain. Given the viscosity, I'd recommend sitting the 4oz bottle in warm water for a few minutes prior to application. You only need the lightest drizzle to each link.

Rotate the cranks for a few minutes afterward to ensure thorough penetration before wiping side plates and jockey wheels. True to form, the syrup like consistency attracts a little dust in the first few days but so long as you don’t repeat applications and pat dry using paper towels or clean rag it doesn’t worsen.

Terms like 'unique proprietary formula' smack of marketing speak and little substance but from the first few pedal strokes, I couldn’t believe how silent my geared transmission became-nigh on as quiet as a fixed and this hasn’t deteriorated despite 750 varied miles (through mud, heavy downpour and coastal climate) and 1,000 miles between applications certainly isn’t out of the question.

Weekly wiping of the side plates and jockey wheels keeps the transmission happy and prevents grit accumulating. It's fine for everything up to river crossings and similar antics, mile munching audax, winter and commuter mounts will benefit most. Given the longevity £7.50 for 4 fl ounces seems very, very reasonable.

Verdict

Without doubt the finest wet lube I've come across