How To Lube Your Mountain Bike

A mountain bike is a lot of fun although it does
require some maintenance.  You should always lube
your bike 15 hours or so before riding, as quick
jobs right before you take off normally doesn't
get everything lubed.  Some lube jobs will last
for more rides, although if things get loud or
shifting gets sticky, it's time to lube.

Here is how to lube your bike:

1.  The Chain

Apply a generous amount of mountain bike lube to
your chain as you move the pedals around backwards.
It also helps to find a spot to steady your hand
such as the frame while you move the pedals around
and around.  Make sure you watch out for the cranks
and chain rings as they move around.

2.  Front Deraileur

On the front defaileur, lube the pivots.  Use a
spot of lube everywhere you can see movement when
you move the shift lever.

3.  Rear Deraileur

Just like the front deraileur, lube the pivots. 

4.  Pedals

There are some types of clipless pedals that will
need to have the release mechanism lubed.  You
should only lube this mechanism if you have this
type of pedal.

5.  Everything into Motion

Pedal around, shift your gears, and bounce your
bike around.  If you hear anything squeak, there's
a moving part there are it should be lubed
immediately.

6.  Wipe it All Clean

Once you've lubed everything and wiped it all
around, simply wipe it all back off.  Use a rag
to wipe away all the lube you used, including all
the lube off the chain.  Wiping it away will leave
the lube in between the parts but clean it away
from everywhere it isn't needed.  This will keep
your bike from collecting dirt while you ride.