Why Bicycle Chains Turn Black?

The Short Answer is:

cycle chains turn black due to the accumulation of dirt and grime on the chain, which is attracted by the chain lubricant. The oil in the chain lubricant attracts dust and dirt, which over time creates a pasty, gooey blackened mess on the chain. This problem can be compounded if you frequently apply too much lube, or are using the wrong kind for your riding conditions. To keep your chain clean, you should regularly clean it with a dedicated chain degreaser and a brush or rag. Once there is no more black residue coming off the chain, dry it with a dry cloth or rag.

Bicycle chains are an essential component of any bike, and keeping them clean is crucial for optimal performance. However, it’s common to notice that after a few rides, the chain starts turning black. This phenomenon can be attributed to the dirt and grime that the chain lubricant attracts, creating a pasty, gooey-blackened mess over time.

In this article, we will explore the reasons why bicycle chains turn black and how to keep them clean. We will also discuss the best lubricants to use and the proper techniques for cleaning your bike’s chain. So, if you’re tired of dealing with a dirty, blackened chain, read on to learn more!

Understanding the Composition of Bicycle Chains

A bicycle chain is a crucial component of a bike that transfers power from the pedals to the drive wheel, propelling the bike forward. While it may seem like a simple component, there is a lot of technology that goes into designing a bike chain to ensure that it meshes perfectly with the chainrings on the crankset and the cassette sprockets at the rear, to shift smoothly when it’s needed to.

Chain Structure

A bike chain is made up of a series of links, primarily consisting of side plates, pins, and rollers. Most chains have alternating wide and narrow links in a pattern that repeats for the length of the chain.

The roller chain is the component that works the hardest, and it is made up of short cylindrical rollers held together by side links. The gaps between the rollers mesh with the teeth on a sprocket or chainring, thus driving transmission when turned.

Chain Dimensions

Each chain has three important dimensions: pitch, inner width, and outer width. Chain pitch is the distance at which the pins are placed. It is measured by measuring the distance between three links, then dividing it by two.

Single-speed chains have an inner width of 1/8″ (3.175 mm), while multi-speed chains from 5 to 8 have an inner width of 3/32″ (2.38 mm). Multi-speed chains from 9 to 12 speeds have an inner width of 11/128″ (2.18 mm).

The outer width of a chain varies depending on the number of speeds, and it is essential to match the chain with the manufacturer’s drivetrain for optimal performance.

Chain Materials and Construction

For strength, most road bike chains are made of alloy steel, but some performance models feature high-end alloy parts or hollow pins/side plates to save on weight. Some chains are nickel-plated to prevent rust or for aesthetics.

The chain consists of multiple pairs of outer plates and inner plates held together by rivets. The roller separates each pair of inner plates. The pin or rivet is driven in to be pressed tightly through the outer plates with as little protrusion as possible. The rivet is free to pivot on the roller and the inner plates.

In conclusion, understanding the composition of a bicycle chain is essential for maintaining and upgrading your bike. Knowing the dimensions, materials, and construction of a chain can help you choose the right chain for your bike and ensure optimal performance.

Factors That Contribute to Chain Blackening

Factors that contribute to bike chain blackening are the type and amount of lubricant used, dirt and grime attracted by chain lube and lack of regular cleaning. The lubricant in the chain attracts dust and dirt, which is responsible for turning the oil into black color.

Applying too much lube or using the wrong kind for your riding conditions can compound the problem. A blackened, gunked-up chain can reduce the useful life of the chain, chainring, sprockets, and derailleurs, all of the critical and expensive parts that make up your bicycle’s drivetrain.

When a chain is not properly cleaned and lubed, friction levels increase at the sliding surfaces of each chain link, which can damage the parts it touches, both reducing pedaling efficiency and corroding those metal components over time.

The tension of the chain is another factor to be aware of, as positive tension does not allow the chain to go slack, which opens up the sliding surfaces and allows the cleaner to flow through the internals more easily

Lubrication and Chain Maintenance

Bicycle chains turn black because the chain lubricant attracts dirt and grime, creating a pasty, gooey-blackened mess over time. To keep your chain clean, it is important to use the correct lubricant and clean it regularly.

There are lubricants specifically made for bicycle chains, which are designed to keep your drivetrain running smoothly without gumming it up. Different types of chain lubes are available for different types of riding and different riding conditions. Choosing the wrong type can affect the crisp shifting of your bike.

Chain maintenance is one of the most controversial aspects of bicycle mechanics. Chain durability is affected by riding style, gear choice, whether the bicycle is ridden in rain or snow, type of soil in the local terrain, type of lubricant, lubrication techniques, and the sizes and condition of the bicycle’s sprockets.

To lubricate your chain, there are three points where it needs lubrication. First, and most importantly, the link pins need to be lubricated where they move inside the inner links as the chain bends and straightens. Second, the insides of the rollers need to be lubricated, and third, the sprockets need to be lubricated.

To clean your bike chain, wipe it with a rag or cloth until it is no longer black. If your chain is particularly dirty, you may need to repeat the degreasing process. It is important to make sure the friction is minimized within the links of the chain.

After cleaning, it is important to lubricate the chain properly to ensure it runs smoothly. In summary, to keep your bike chain clean and running smoothly, it is important to use the correct lubricant, clean it regularly, and lubricate it properly after cleaning.

Environmental Factors and Chain Discoloration

Bicycle chains can turn black due to various environmental factors. One of the main reasons is the accumulation of dirt and grime on the chain, which can cause it to discolor. The accumulation of dirt and grime can be due to the use of the bike in dusty or dirty environments.

Moisture and dust can penetrate the metal parts of the chain, causing it to degrade and corrode over time, resulting in a rusted and worn-out bike. The production of bicycles and their components also has an environmental impact.

Studies have shown that the switch from steel to aluminum and other more energy-intensive materials, the scaling up of the bicycle manufacturing industry, increasing incompatibility and decreasing quality of components, the growing success of electric bicycles, and the use of shared bike services have made bicycles less sustainable.

The environmental impact of bicycle production has been studied in Bangladesh, where a cradle-to-grave life cycle assessment approach was used to identify environmental impacts and hot spots of bicycle production. The study found that the production of bicycles in Bangladesh has a significant environmental impact, with carbon dioxide emissions being the most significant.

To reduce the environmental impact of the cycling industry, companies need to address their supply chains. According to a report, 95% of the negative impact of organizations comes from the supply chain. Therefore, to address the impact, the supply chain needs to change.

Regarding chain discoloration, it is essential to keep the chain clean and lubricated to prevent dirt and grime from accumulating on it. Using a rag to wipe down the chain regularly can help keep it clean.

When disposing of rags covered in chain grease, it is essential to handle them in an ecologically sustainable way. Rags can be used in washing a bike more than once, then can be used for wiping down chains, hands, and other dirty things once. After that, they can be washed and reused or disposed of in an ecologically sustainable way.

In conclusion, the cycling industry has an environmental impact that needs to be addressed. To reduce the impact, companies need to address their supply chains. Regarding chain discoloration, keeping the chain clean and lubricated can prevent dirt and grime from accumulating on it.

Common Misconceptions About Chain Blackening

Chain blackening is a process that involves treating metal chains with a chemical solution to give them a black or dark finish. However, there are several misconceptions about this process that need to be addressed.

1. Chain blackening is only for aesthetic purposes. While chain blackening is often used to give chains a sleek and stylish look, it also serves a functional purpose. The black finish helps to protect the chains from corrosion and wear, making them more durable and long-lasting.
2. Chain blackening is a complicated process that requires specialized equipment. Chain blackening can be done using simple equipment and materials that are readily available. However, it is important to follow the proper safety procedures and guidelines to ensure that the process is done correctly.
3. Chain blackening is harmful to the environment. Chain blackening can be done using environmentally-friendly solutions that are safe for both the user and the environment. It is important to choose the right solution and follow the proper disposal procedures to minimize any negative impact on the environment.
4. Chain blackening is only for metal chains. Chain blackening can be done on a variety of materials, including plastic and rubber. However, the process may need to be adjusted depending on the material being treated.

In conclusion, chain blackening is a useful process that can help to improve the durability and appearance of chains. However, it is important to understand the common misconceptions about this process to ensure that it is done correctly and safely.

Cleaning and Preventive Measures

Cleaning and preventive measures are crucial to maintain the longevity and efficiency of a bicycle chain. The black color on the chain is due to the accumulation of dirt and grime attracted by the lubricant. Regular cleaning of the chain with a degreaser and wiping it with a rag until it is no longer black can prevent this issue.

It is important to note that grit and dirt can grind away the metal of the chain, reducing its efficiency and lifespan. Therefore, cleaning the chain can save money in the long run. It is recommended to clean and lube the chain frequently to prevent chain wear and prolong its life.

Overlubricating the chain should be avoided as it can attract more dirt and grime, leading to faster wear and tear. Choosing a biodegradable chain lube can also help reduce the carbon footprint.

In summary, diligent maintenance of the chain through regular cleaning and proper lubrication can prevent the chain from turning black and prolong its life, saving money and improving efficiency in the long run

Conclusion: Why Bicycle Chains Turn Black?

In conclusion, bike chains turn black due to the accumulation of dirt and grime attracted by the chain lubricant. This can be compounded by using too much lube or the wrong kind of lube for the riding conditions.

A blackened chain can reduce its useful life of the chain. Chain maintenance is a controversial topic, and experts disagree on the best practices. However, regular cleaning with a degreaser and brush can help prevent the chain from turning black.

It is also important to use the correct lubricant and lubrication techniques. While there are many variables that affect chain durability, proper maintenance can help extend the life of the chain.