While not the ideal modern solution, engine oil can be used for bicycle chains, and historically, some pro team mechanics used to recommend it for winter bikes. However, dedicated bicycle chain lubricants are generally preferred for optimal performance and cleanliness.
Engine Oil for Bicycle Chains: Historical Use and Why
For thrifty riders or those facing specific conditions, engine oil has been considered a viable option. As referenced, motor oil is commonly touted as THE thrifty riders' chain lube of choice. Indeed, some pro team mechanics used to recommend it for winter bikes. This suggests its use was recognized, particularly in challenging conditions like wet or cold weather where durability might be prioritized over cleanliness. The reference specifically notes that 10w/40 was a staple for Michael's winter/training bike during his university years, highlighting a practical application of this practice.
Reasons it might have been used include:
- Cost: Readily available and often cheaper than specialized bicycle lubes.
- Durability in Wet: Thicker oils like 10w/40 might resist washing off in wet winter conditions better than some lighter lubes.
- Availability: Easy to find in most garages or shops.
Potential Drawbacks of Using Engine Oil
Despite historical use, engine oil has significant disadvantages when used on a bicycle chain compared to purpose-built cycling products:
- Attracts Dirt: Engine oil is formulated to suspend contaminants within the oil itself (for filtering in an engine). On an exposed bicycle chain, this property means it readily picks up and holds road grit, dust, and dirt.
- Creates Grinding Paste: The mixture of oil and accumulated dirt forms an abrasive paste that significantly accelerates wear on the chainrings, cassette, pulleys, and the chain itself.
- Messy: Engine oil is thicker and messier than most bicycle lubes, leading to grease marks on legs, clothing, and other bike components.
- Not Optimized: Bicycle chain loads and environmental exposure (water, dirt, lack of a sealed environment) are different from those in an engine. Bicycle lubes are designed to penetrate links, reduce friction with minimal mess, and resist environmental factors specific to cycling.
Modern Bicycle Chain Lubricants
Today, the market offers a wide variety of bicycle-specific chain lubricants formulated for different conditions:
- Dry Lubes: Thinner, often wax- or PTFE-based, designed for dry, dusty conditions where attracting dirt is the main concern.
- Wet Lubes: Thicker, more viscous oils designed to cling to the chain and resist washing off in rain or wet conditions.
- Wax-Based Lubes: Create a dry, waxy film on the chain, significantly reducing dirt attraction and extending drivetrain life.
These modern options offer better performance, less mess, and longer drivetrain component life compared to generic engine oil.
In summary, while engine oil used to be recommended by some professionals for specific scenarios like winter riding, it is not the best choice for most riders due to its tendency to attract dirt and cause premature wear. Dedicated bicycle chain lubes provide superior protection and performance.
