Optimize Graphene Chain Wax

Optimize Graphene Chain Wax is a high-performance drip wax aimed at riders seeking top-tier, low-friction efficiency. Its well-designed bottle makes application straightforward, and its longevity claims are among the few that hold up in real-world use. However, with a price tag of over £50 for just 100ml and only marginal gains over Optimize’s standard Graphene formula, that performance comes at a premium.

Buy now: Optimize Graphene Chain Wax for €58.82 from Optimize

Optimize Graphene Chain Wax: Application and performance

Applying Optimize Graphene Chain Wax follows the usual drip wax process and requires a completely clean chain, free from oil and factory grease, which is present on virtually all new chains.

The wax is packaged in Optimize’s standard bottle, used across its drip wax range. It’s well designed, with a narrow nozzle that allows for precise and controlled application. Optimize recommends applying one to two drops on each chain link to ensure full coverage.

Drying time is essential. The carrier must evaporate before the wax starts working, and Optimize recommends waiting at least eight hours, ideally overnight. I found it is simplest to get into the habit of reapplying immediately after a ride. While the first application can be time-consuming due to the need for a full degrease and dry, reapplication is much easier. A simple wipe with a clean rag is enough before applying again.

Once applied, the high wax content is evident, as the chain dries hard, almost like a chain that has been submerged in a hot wax, although it is much easier to break and you can begin riding immediately, rather than needing to break the wax before installing. The wax runs impressively clean, even in dusty or muddy conditions. The chain remains spotless, and when wiped down, there’s barely any residue on the cloth, which is a good sign of clean-running performance.

Optimize claims the wax will last between 250 and 300 kilometres. In dry conditions and on tarmac, this proved to be accurate. It’s reassuring to see a brand offer realistic figures based on real-world use, not perfect lab conditions. However, like all drip waxes, performance does drop in wet weather. Off-road or in consistent rain, reapplication may be needed after as little as 50 kilometres. This isn’t unique to Optimize and is typical of wax-based lubes in general.

This Graphene version does seem to last longer than Optimize’s cheapest wax, but during testing, I couldn’t detect a significant difference between this and the Graphite version.

Graphene and graphite are both forms of carbon. Graphene is a single layer of atoms arranged in a hexagonal pattern, while graphite consists of multiple layers. In theory, graphene is stronger and should offer lower friction, and it is also what makes it so much more expensive. Optimize claims this wax reduces drag, but doesn’t publish any data to support that. In practice, any differences are likely to be very small. Many wax lubes already offer lower friction than oil-based ones, so even if this is the most efficient drip wax out there, the gains are unlikely to be more than a few watts.

For some riders, a drip wax could work well as a top-up after hot waxing a chain. I tested this several times with good results, both after using Optimize’s own Hot Wax and Silca Secret Chain Blend. In both cases, the chain stayed clean and maintained similar longevity to what is claimed.

Value

The performance of Optimize Graphene Chain Wax is excellent for a drip wax. It’s on par with the best alternatives I’ve used, including Silca Super Secret, with both offering similar longevity and exceptionally clean running. The main difference is price. Silca’s largest 8oz (240ml) bottle costs £40, while Optimize Graphene is £51 for just 100ml.

Optimize’s Graphite version is more affordable. Swapping from a single layer of carbon atoms (graphene) to the multi-layer structure of graphite cuts the price in half.

Another option is Connex Liquid Wax at £39.99, also produced by Optimize. There’s no official word on whether it contains graphene or graphite, but the grey appearance suggests it may be similar.

Some products cost even more. Muc-Off Ludicrous AF is among the most expensive, even after a recent price drop, but it’s not a product I would recommend. In testing, it picked up lots of dirt, even when used in good weather, which will have an effect on the performance.

A better comparison is AbsoluteBlack’s GraphenLube, which also contains graphene. Priced at £83.40 for a 140ml bottle, it works out at £59.59 per 100ml, slightly more than Optimize.

Conclusion

For riders chasing the cleanest and fastest drivetrain, hot waxing is still the best option. It takes a little more effort, especially to get started, and while some newer products make the process simpler, it’s still more than many riders are willing to take on.

Optimize Graphene Chain Wax is the cleanest-running drip wax I’ve used so far. Even in poor conditions, barely any dirt or mud sticks to it. The performance is outstanding, and once you get into the habit of applying it after rides, the process becomes straightforward. The only drawback is the cost. It delivers little practical benefit over cheaper, high-performing options. For those who want the cleanest chain and don’t mind paying for it, it’s a strong choice. But for most riders, the Graphite version or alternatives like Silca Super Secret offer better value.

Buy now: Optimize Graphene Chain Wax for €58.82 from Optimize

Verdict

Superb performance and ultra-clean running, but the price makes it hard to justify over cheaper, equally effective options

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