Why Bike Mechanics HATE You For Waxing Your Chain...

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[@colokurt1]

This video is brought to you by Big Quick Link.

[@stephendenagy3396]

Nick is demonstrating smug Ignorance. There is so much data on the utility of MODERN waxes and drivetrain extension in REAL WORLD CONDITIONS. The comments are DISAPPOINTINGLY uninformed. As far as Quicklinks, it is hard to see the problem. If they link, and are secure, what is the problem? I get a shop might not recommend. But…when they have messed with my chain, I know the SHOP reused the Quicklink as I was not charged a new one. So, I reuse. And I carry spare quicklinks as well as a breaker tool if the links become unusable. If you are waxing you are probably already more adept than the usual rider.

[@Caffeinatedtechnerd]

Spot on! He strikes me as a guy that forms an opinion and sticks to it regardless of any new information. I like Nick but I sure as hell won’t be taking much advice from him 😅

[@lloydjarm]

Yeah, totally opinionated. I wouldn't like him as a mechanic. I bet he was/is against disc brakes.

[@discbrakefan]

Yeah it’s kind of scary a bike mechanic is so ignorant on chain lubrication. The cynic in me thinks he doesn’t want people waxing chains because he’ll sell less chains & cassettes.

[@papalegba6796]

There is no scientific data on the subject whatsoever 😂

[@discbrakefan]

@@papalegba6796 Yes there is mate.

[@thecoffeeblog]

Wax gunk is better than dirt/oil gunk. It is cleaner and it doesn't wear out your chain. I deep waxed my chain only once and liquid wax drops solution as weekly light maintenance and my chain is 15000Km and still like new. I will never go back to oil.

[@Ropetable]

if the wax gunk gets into your bearings, that might not be a downside either haha

[@grahamaustin9085]

Why would it?

[@WildBikerBill]

My brother and I rented a pair of bikes in Moab, Utah, USA for riding around in Canyonlands National Park way back in the early 1990's. I still remember the bike shop telling us, if they found any trace of oil based lubricant on the chains, there would be a very stiff cleaning and rewaxing charge showing up on our credit cards. As we were renting the bikes for only a couple/few days, their preference was that we do nothing regarding lubrication.

[@CaptainLou19]

Why did you delete zero friction cycling’s first comment?

[@papalegba6796]

He didnt, Adam. How many accounts do you have? 😂

[@RichardMigneron]

No problem, using a Wipperman Connex RE-USABLE quick link on a KMC 11 speed chain.

[@robertmcfadyen9156]

Make sure that the Connex Wippermann quick link (when above the chainstay) , has the bottom of the "V" facing down when looking at the bicycle from the drive side .

[@robertmcfadyen9156]

Only six uses for Connex link up to eleven speed .

[@robertmcfadyen9156]

The Connex link would be satisfactory but not great . The KMC one would be preferable . The Connex one has slightly different dimensions to KMC .

[@kevinlewis390]

So if I am hearing correctly, the benefits of waxing a chain (significantly less wear, a more efficient, faster, drivetrain, and a cleaner drivetrain) are all erased by the fact that someone might sue Nick. Because Campag? And this after he admitted that he sells Connex chains with unlimited quick-link re-use? So what about those people then, who buy a Connex chain, Nick? The argument put forth is lazy at best and no real alternatives were offered. Either this was done to drive views and comments (yep, you got me) or Nick doesn't have the faintest idea of what he is talking about.

[@zomgsekk]

That's not a lazy answer, he's just looking out for his business. If he recommends this, let's say there's an accident that can be traced back to that link.. It might be the home mechanic installing it wrong, but it's not clear and yadi yada - Shimano, SRAM or Campag take their hands off it. Guess who's liable then? Right, the mechanic that recommended it knowing the chain manufacturer sent out a notice. He's literally just saying, "Hey, if it works for you, go ahead, but I can't take any liability if something goes horribly wrong"

[@kevinlewis390]

@@zomgsekk So then he does not recommend bicycles, right? Because by your logic: If he did, let's say there's an accident that can be traced back to that link. I t may may be the rider decided ride at traffic, but it's not clear and... manufacturer would take their hands off of it. You can make this argument for literally anything (you know, like derailleur hanger alignment tools). In other words rather than taking the time to consider it and formulating a researched answer to the question I could simply "no cause I might get sued". This is, by definition, lazy.

[@papalegba6796]

There are no mechanical benefits to waxing. If there were, industrial applications would use wax lubricants. But they don't, ever 🤔😂

[@discbrakefan]

@@papalegba6796 Oh wow the NPC really has no life, replying to old comments with absolute rubbish because it’s butt-hurt about something

[@papalegba6796]

@@discbrakefan tell me one industrial chain lubrication method that uses wax, Adam. Just one. You can't, can you? 😂

[@doughorner5730]

I've seen Nick change his mind before and I'm confident that a few years down the line he will become a convert. I'm also a professional bike mechanic and until something better comes along there's no way oil will ever touch my drivetrain again.

[@dbk81]

Definitely a man who is very stuck in his ways.

[@DanTuber]

💯

[@johnkasza2315]

how many years until hes up to speed?

[@Caffeinatedtechnerd]

Nick is delusional on this one.

[@difflocktwo]

how often do you need to wax a chain for an all season commuter bike?

[@BarePotato]

If you are really worried, you can stick to 11s and use KMC unlimitedly re-usable quick link.

[@reiszrie]

its not unlimited tho, KMC states in their manual that they recommend changing the missing link after 3 times of connecting and disconnecting

[@christianb.1028]

​@@reiszrieThey definitely do wear out. For a new one you need a tool. After opening and closing it a couple times you can open it by hand.

[@BarePotato]

Ah you are right. It says reusable for 3-5 times.

[@flflam]

I came here to say exactly this 😉

[@macvos]

As far as I can tell, Wippermann are the only quick links that can practicality be re-used for the lifespan of the chain (because no single component based on current tech last forever).

[@robertstrobel7338]

"You cant use a new split link on an old chain." Why do they sell them?

[@leebarrett4709]

That is quite profound and no one else picked up on it.

[@_Zane__]

I think he was referring to Campy only saying that

[@starlitshadows]

​@@_Zane__ he was. Also, you can buy them for a new chain

[@MikeMassey-fi5of]

Exactly. And why put one on at the factory when as soon as it’s used the chain is rubbish.

[@zerofrictioncycling992]

@@_Zane__ I have checked campy website and i cant find this at all. And campy have been doing master links for about 5 minutes - just how much testing do you think they have done to assess putting a new link on chain removed for cleaning maintenance thats say 1000 or 2000 or whatever kms old, and from that found concerns. I can tell you right now that would be zero. I would love to know where that information came from, and how it would have been derived if it actually has been put out by any mfg.

[@dbk81]

Not reusing split links is hokey bull shit money grab for manufacturers to bleed more money out of you. Ridiculous.

[@LaurentiusTriarius]

I pay about 25$ for a pack of 20 on Ali 😂

[@dbk81]

Which works too, and I’m a user of Ali Express quite often, and here in lies the debate, what’s better a Shimano split link used twice or a new off brand Ali express link 🤷🏼‍♂️ I mean the answer is, they are probably both just fine.

[@philadams9254]

@@LaurentiusTriarius You overpayed

[@MrClimberdave]

The non-reusable quick links are not designed to be reused (that's the money grab not the company saying that they're non-reusable). Personally I reuse SRAM and Shimano 12 speed links a few times, but realize too that each time I open one up it damages the mating surfaces and causes the link to be less secure than new. Reusable and non-reusable quick links are manufactured differently.

[@NoahStephens]

Not everything is a conspiracy, Alex Jones

[@Fleckinger]

This all speech is not about wax. Users also reuse quick link for many other reasons.

[@papalegba6796]

Ok chatbot 😂

[@shellderp]

@@papalegba6796 ok npc

[@papalegba6796]

@@shellderp ok Adam 😂

[@thangknowa3288]

Quick links get loose after a few removals, some instructions warn about it. They are all I use, and I replace mine when they unclip too easy.

[@SpecialeyesRider]

I can tell you from experience that waxing a chain is not only easy and worth it, but also so much better than oil-based lubes for many reasons. I am a home mechanic, but not a guy with a set of wrenches and a bike stand. I regularly build bikes, I am the go-to mechanic for our cycling club, I teach people how to perform maintenance on their own bikes, I have a better shop than most bike shops, and I have the best maintained bikes in a club of thousands of riders. After the initial immersion waxing, the care for it is no more difficult than oil lubed chains, in fact, it much less care. Now if you’re the lazy bloke that likes to jump on his bike and ride it hard and put it away wet, then this isn't for you. But if you’re the type of person that takes care of his investments and treats his equipment well, then this is for you. I’d hate to see the disrepair that your home, car, or life is in if you just don’t care about the things you have. On the rare occasion of a puncture on the rear wheel, I can change it and not worry about dirtying my hands. I don’t worry about the sudden rain washing off my lube. When I rinse my bike off with clean water, I don’t worry about the chain. Wash and dry and put it away after every ride.

[@makantahi3731]

all yes

[@mikehhhhhhh]

I love waxing my chain. Far less effort than I previously spent cleaning chains. Hot wax once a month with two chains on rotations and top up with a drip wax in between. I reuse links 3-5 times, but pay attention to how it snaps apart and back together, the moment it’s not a solid, well defined click it goes in the bin. But to be fair, the cost of replacing the link every time when you do it once a month is not really prohibitive. Cheaper than replacing your chain 3 times as frequently when you don’t clean it properly.

[@hughespjh]

Pretty much the perfect riposte. Also convinced me to wax my chain.

[@papalegba6796]

All lies 😂

[@Makebelieve123]

I second all of that !

[@JackFou]

Exactly right 👍

[@burlak3182]

If you ride alone. Reuse your link forever. I never experienced link snap (but I experience chain snap), and just fall off, there is no reason for you to get hurt or crash. you'll not even feel it it's same as if your chain falls from cog. you just stop proppel yourself. If you ride in group cloe behind each other... IDK then maybe can person behind you hit it and slip on it and fall... IDK but I wouln't worry about it too much.

[@5amba]

Nic proves it again and again, that he is not a good mechanic... Shimano and KMC has reusable quick links since forever (reusable 3-5 times). Only SRAM it is different and even there a new link every time you re-wax (every 1000km) is cheaper than oil based lube, because your drivetrain components live much longer.

[@zerofrictioncycling992]

so i put an informative comment up yesterday - checking for replies today - its gone? was it removed? why?

[@zerofrictioncycling992]

@@daveanolik8837 I sell whichever products, wax, wax drip and wet - that test as genuinely top products. So my bias is rather clearly towards what performs, and a huge amount of resources goes into determining that. So no, it is rather unlikely they should delete a balanced comment helping provide information on immersive waxing just because one of the products i sell out of a stellar line up of products overall including numerous drip lubricants is a silca hm wax. That would be rather weird yes? And honestly you dont know anything re what ZFC actually does if you believe we are biased. Everything i sell, everything i recommend, is led by the worlds most exhaustive independent testing. If you check out the testing, the leaderboard, and the products stocked and recommended, you would understand. Cade media shld be well above having any counter information presented from the leading independent test facility and just deleting it methinks.

[@stephencharles6932]

Cheap stunt by this site, really disappointing as have enjoyed their content for some time now. Looking ahead, red flag to their output.

[@gilleek2]

​@@stephencharles6932 why? The guy tests the hell out of lubes to see what's best and then sells the best stuff. Wouldn't someone have more incentive to tell consumers to just use whatever lube they can find and then change their chain and cassette when it wears down (and buy it from their shop).

[@stephencharles6932]

erm, no, not at all! Why would a retailer want to do that? I want help, advice, research, expertise and guidance to help me make the best choices right away. Doh! * and deleting polite comments from the actual subject of their edition is extremely poor judgement so shows a bias and hidden agenda.@@gilleek2

[@dawn_rider]

Adam , before you post any comments on YT, copy and save the text to a file local to your computer or use a clipboard manager. That way it saves you some re-typing should YT or a channel owner decide they don't like it. Do you see many Cade Media replies to the storm of comments on here ... NO . Why do Cade Media even enable comments when none or very few get replied to ?

[@michaelmechex]

In 999 cases out of a 1000 reusing a split link is completely fine. Those companies just don't want to be responsible for that one oddball case when it fails. Also why would they tell you to reuse anything when you can just buy a new one? Thankfully Apple doesn't sell groupsets, they'd make you buy a whole new drivetrain every time you need to lube a chain 😂

[@MartinBrown-mb7pz]

If Apple made groupsets you'd never have to lube them.

[@makantahi3731]

that's a good job

[@kalani707]

The vast majority of chain-waxing deniers I see on social media don’t pay full-fare for replacement drivetrain components. For me, I’ll take the clean, dry chain and 3x the chain/chainset/cassette lifespan, thank you very much!

[@phoffen3829]

Nobody is a "denier". Some think it looks like a pain in the bum, and don't feel like learning a new skill. That's me.

[@discbrakefan]

@@phoffen3829It’s easy and has so many benefits. Just do it.

[@papalegba6796]

@@phoffen3829 chain waxing is either a cult, or there are a lot of marketing accounts promoting it, because that "denier" comment is truly insane 😂

[@makantahi3731]

the durability of a well-maintained chain should be at least 6x, it's hard to say about the teeth because I reshape them as soon as the chain starts skipping, but certainly at least 3x longer

[@treimar]

I haven't had an issue with a quick-link failing. But you can definitely feel it getting looser and looser every time. Good idea to only use it a few times. Or use KMC reuseable ones.

[@richardvaughn168]

Crazy antiwaxer conspiracy theorist!😁

[@KOL630]

😂😂

[@huskiesparty]

YBN chains offer quick links that can be reused 5 times. They also state that they are the only company that offers a truly reusable quick link.

[@robinseibel7540]

And they work.

[@CruiserBrah]

Check out the Connex chains. I think their links are infinitely reusable.

[@paddyotoole2058]

I use the YBN quick links on both Campagnolo and Shimano chains. 10, 11 & 12 speed. MTB, gravel & road bikes. For nearly 5 years now. Can reuse them multiple times like you say. Never had any problems.

[@macvos]

YBN is great going by experiences I've read, but them offering the only re-usable quick link is bollocks.

[@phillycheesetake]

I've never heard such brainless nonsense.

[@D1N02]

I always use 2 chains in 4 runs. So i am undoing the quick link 4 times per chain. Never had a problem. Did have two kmc chains break on me last winter. But those broke at a regular link. Must have been a bad batch or there are now fake chains going around.

[@SianaGearz]

Counterfeit KMC chains are absolutely a thing.

[@oefzdegoeggl]

Whenever I see this guy talking, I end up doing exactly the opposite of what he says and it usually turns out well 😄 Happy waxing.

[@nickhutchinson9068]

I have waxed for years now, and I have never had an issue. I always use the same split link. However, I have 3 chains that I rotate. so I'm not breaking the same link excessively

[@JackFou]

I mean, quick links hardly cost a fortune. I can get 2 Shimano 11 speed ones for 10 bucks. Reusable KMC ones are even cheaper and can be used ~3 times. Plus, a good wax can last you hundreds of km do you probably won’t be pulling the chain off weekly unless you’re a pro. The opinion in this video seems hugely exaggerated.

[@stuartdryer1352]

Nick is totally full of crap about immersion waxing. This is right up there with the "it's a myth that helmets protect you" episode. You are rapidly becoming unwatchable.

[@markusseppala6547]

You can use a connex quick link that doesn't really wear out. Also I've used the KMC missing links up to 20 times probably until they get too loose. Only quick link that's failed me is a shimano one not designed to be re-used.

[@DannysMyNanny]

I think people miss the point about the Quick Links. Even if using them multiple times is safe, the manufacturers say otherwise. And from a business standpoint, reusing them is a no go. I work at a shop and I tell people do whatever you want at home, but I’m not gonna risk the 1% chance of you getting hurt due to a quick link failure. It’s not worth my job to say that it’s perfectly fine (I’ve resused my quick link at least 5 times now)

[@DanTuber]

Does nick even ride? He sounds so ignorant

[@ivanjednobiegowiec7656]

I'm cycling counciously for 20 years. Over all that time I never had split link fail. Starting from 8, going 9, 10, 11 up to 12 speed. Only once in my life i snapped the chain. Dirty drivetrain, very poor choice of shifting time and gear selection. Additionally I once had bad batch of single speed chains, in which outer plates were just cracking under load. Apart of that, nowt. So my personal experience says not an issue. Perhaps I'm lucky, perhaps it is B.S.

[@MM-kt5dv]

1. The quicklink argument is bogus. If you want, KMC makes quicklinks that are designed for multiple use, are readily available, inexpensive and work on chains from different manufacturers. 2. In the 'real world' there is WAY less dirt that accumulates on the drivetrain of a waxed chain - fact. 3. It may not be practical for a bike shop mechanic, but for home use, waxing is easy and saves a lot of time over other methods, just in ease & speed of drivetrain cleaning alone.

[@makantahi3731]

there is a simple and good method for hot waxing a chain on a bicycle but they are too stupid to use it and then they would sell less chains and other parts

[@PeterSdrolias]

Amen👍

[@justinharrington6335]

Highly opinionated, smug and unfortunately illinformed.

[@ajsds66]

Hot wax, best thing ever. Clean, smooth and longevity. Absolute no brainer.

[@Coolcmsc]

Whoever it is with the glasses is spreading rumours and giving advice on the basis of protecting himself legally. In what way is that helpful to your viewers?

[@keepitsoggy]

Nick is often incredibly unhelpful. People want to know how to repair and maintain bikes for themselves and explore what is actually possible, not just do what the manufacturer says we can - we can all read the small print of the components we buy.

[@conradmrowiec2524]

That seems like bunk, Covering your ass. Myself and many others have used the links after cleaning or waxing the chain. These are the same people who said campag , sram and shimano cannot coexist with each other. Well they did in the 10sp days. Now that there are electronic groups sets the tolerances are different. The rotors of simano work fine with the sram axs hyd brakes also. Manufacturers need to cover there asses.

[@paulgrimshaw8334]

So use a new split link… or buy a reusable link. There. Problem solved.

[@steveaguay]

I like waxing because where I ride grease picks up so much gunk I have to tend it as much as wax anyway. But I would only recommend it to other crazy people like myself. There is more you need to know and more you can mess up.

[@oranjid]

Connex links and chains are indeed the solution. Though the links will also work with most other chains and in an emergency a 10s links will work with a 11s chain or a 11s links even with a 12s chain and the other way around. One up or down. Will get you home for sure. The connex quick link must be installed in the right direction otherwise it might open. I never had one fail on me in 4 years and 100-120.000km and they also work perfectly fine with most other chains from other manufacturers. For immersive waxing it is the best solution. And you do not need any tools to open the link either. I like it also better than the KMC links and any other quick links I have ever used.

[@shred3005]

Just learn to service your bike yourself and stop taking it to moaning bike mechanics.

[@DavidAllen-w2b]

Quick links are cheep.Use the reusable link a few times then replace

[@joelecho]

Use the same quick link 'till it no longer fits snug, then replace. Problem solved.

[@robinseibel7540]

You guys seem to be really hesitant to acknowledge and address factual errors. Are you guys concerned about facts, or are you guys just an entertainment source? If it's the latter, then please stop pretending to be an information source for cyclists.

[@britishrocklovingyank3491]

Waxing rules and mechanics are such bitter people anyway I don't listen to them much.

[@anthonymiller4004]

Join us next week when Nick explains why you should only run 23mm tyres! #muppet

[@DrewAreYou]

I got 9,000 miles on my SRAM Force chain using Squirt wax and still had 50% life remaining. Only reason I put a new chain on is because my cassette was getting worn. Quieter, cleaner and extends your drivetrain lifespan. Easy as lube to apply to your chain. I don't think there's anything to even discuss...

[@makantahi3731]

you can renew the cassette and it will never skip, so you could use up the chain to the end

[@DrewAreYou]

@@makantahi3731 In theory yes but in reality no. The chain and cassette are really mated to each other after that many miles. A new chain on an old cassette, or vice versa, and they wouldn't mesh well. Would end up being inefficient.

[@makantahi3731]

@@DrewAreYou if you just take a new chain and put it on the old cassette, the chain will probably skip. but if you reshape the teeth on the cassette and the front ring gear (I have a video how to) then you can use the same cassette almost indefinitely and you can save a lot of money that you would have spent on cassettes. it takes 10 seconds per tooth.I've been doing it for years (over 20) and I haven't bought a new cassette in that long.

[@davidtaylor7423]

100% agree, since I have been waxing the life of the chain is much much longer.

[@PowerRanger83]

The bike mechanic spitting a lot of horse crap in this four minutes bit. Maybe he should educate himself on the topic of hot waxing first.

[@fsquared64]

Yeah, because the only people who reuse quick links are those who hot wax their chains. Total clickbait video that has little to do with waxing pros and cons. I’m done with this channel.

[@TrevorLindgren]

A new split link is not that expensive and cheaper than a new cassette if you are using crappy lubricant.

[@makantahi3731]

he does not know for hot waxing on bike, quick link solved

[@peterthomson8453]

Wow, reading the comments below from the keyboard warrior brigade is insane. I love how people personally attack Nick for speaking his mind and having an opinion. Funny that, I thought we were all aloud to have one? Watching this video, I can see Nick is comming at this from the business owners perspective. These days people sue for anything, so I actually don't blame him for feeling the way he does. After all it is quite litrally his business on the line here. As the business owner he has to abide by the manufacturers recommendations as he is supporting their equipment. Failure to do so can lead to losing you supplier status etc. Yes I am also looking at this from a business perspective.

[@Quizmate1]

Well said 👏

[@Leo-gt1bx]

As a waxer and happier for it I will just laugh at him and carry on waxing.😂

[@RiskOffRealEstate]

So the argument is waxing = re-using quick links ? So it’s bad ? You’ve got to assume a new link every time . Is it better then ? Why would it be a “no way” to someone changing the quick link every time ? It’s cheap .. the bike is probably 10k so seems weird to skip a 1$ part

[@cpopte]

Who tf cares about GCN ??? Nick ... comeon. Again there is a quick link from Wipperman Connex. That. Good. And I am reusing normal ones forever anyway. Can't care less about the "industry". Also ... just see the last video about this from GP lama ... 15k km ... no wear. And clean. So ... this is bullshit. He's just worried that he doesn't replace enough chains and cassettes.... this channel is gonna soon get unsubscribed like gcn. Go on that path... just go.

[@KoenMiseur]

So a guy that sells chain at higher price than online doesn't want us to have chains that last longer, strange. Also you don't need to use quicklinks if you use drip wax like UFO.

[@lanzaroterider365]

Use a connex, there, everything is ok now. But they’re expensive, cheaper than chain, cassette replacement tho

[@justsomedude7556]

I reuse the split link about 5 times before I change the link out. I wax bath and then use the drip wax in between and rebath about 1K miles , and that has worked pretty well for me and saved me from having to insert a new link each time. Or if I feel like the link is not connecting tightly, then I will replace it. I buy the sram links in groups of 6 so I always have some available as needed. Would love for someone to make a re-usable split link for the AXS flat top chains like the Wipperman's I had on my Shimano 11 speed chains.

[@gmivisualsjason3729]

Waxing chain is the best thing I've done on my road bike. Not only am I getting more life out of my components but my ride is completely silent now......... Drip on wax is fine. Although I apply it after every ride. Cleaning the chain with soapy water drying it then adding wax each time.

[@harrymurphey2634]

.... Aaaahhh Nick ... I use Rock&Roll and get +7000mls ... and the chain was only at 60% ... but it was the start of the riding season ... it's called "preventive maintenance ...

[@zerofrictioncycling992]

I used RNR too when i started. And even with good maintenance, i averaged 5000km (3125 miles) to a genuine 0.5%. that is the average across my first 9 chains / 3 years cycling. Was as low as 4000km in winter seasons and highest was 6500km. Then i saw velonews article with mspeedwax as the winner. Instantly my noodle told me that rather logically, that is going to be better. So i bought some mspeedwax. My next chain took 15,000km to get to 0.5%, and my wifes took 23,500km. And thats when i knew - logic and physics + reality all lined up. If you are getting 7000miles from RNR, you are going to get about 30,000 miles from a top wax!! :)

[@paulb9769]

I have been immersion waxing for a decade and have always reused my quick link hundreds of times in the chains life.

[@markreams3192]

I believe when they’re saying you can’t reuse a quick link means you shouldn’t use for a new chain but only use it for the life of the current chain. New chain = new quick link. I’ve seen a quick link fail when using an old one on a current chain but never from taking the chain off and putting it back on with the chain you’re currently using. I’ve taken a chain off and put it back on many times for cleaning without an issue! As far as waxing is concerned, I’ve never had good luck with wax based dry lubricants working well so I question the efficacy of chain waxing. I’ve never tried the Silca product (zero friction cycling’s favorite) but if it’s as good as their other products it may be worth a try!

[@GallardoFreak888]

I had a quicklink on my 9-speed chain come apart, it didn't break just unclipped. put another quick link on and it's good to go, I now buy KMC reusable quick links and I only reuse the original quick link once (even though I know there;s a risk of failure) Recently waxed all my operational bike's chains and it's been amazing thus far. I use SIlca wax and makes cleaning so much quicker. I also run more fixed gear drivetrains waxed and it's been epic too and those master links are reusable.

[@makantahi3731]

you should have fallen off your bike and sued someone for it

[@matthew.tamasco]

Totally disagree 100%. A quick re-dip once a month or so of heavy riding takes a fraction of the time of cleaning and re-lubing and the drip on top-off works just as well. Totally worth how clean and how long the wax treatment works v re-lubing every 100 miles. Even if I had to replace the quick link once a month - still totally worth it.

[@cuscocanuck]

So what this dude is saying is to not wax your chain because I don't want a lawsuit.??? Ive been doing it for years and love it. Most normal waxing types do a mix of hot wax and drip wax. And in terms of quick links you can feel when they are worn. If they no longer have a solid click when closing them, they are worn. It's not rocket science

[@KevinCearns]

I’ve been using wax for 3-4 years now on all my bikes. 11s Shimano chain with Wipperman link. Wipperman isn’t perfect, but it’s very convenient. In all that time I have had 2 links “unlink” while riding. Both times were on my Tandem bike and both times the links didn’t break. It happened over very rough road while changing gears under power (of 2 people). I put this down to crazy bouncing chain and easy connect/disconnect mechanism of the link. Once they were still on opposite sides of the chain and I could reattach and continue on. The other required me to use my spare link. For this reason, I now always ride with a spare link on the tandem.

[@davetbassbos]

I'm not even a bike mechanic, but I hate you for waxing your chain, the same way I hate Kardashians wearing Metallica shirts. It's the same thing.

[@ivreguera]

I do not reuse them, same discussion about brake hose olives, again and again. Live is too short, accidents happen and dental treatment is so expensive. Play your cards or just lube on the bike, easy.

[@IvanMalechko]

I never take my bikes to a ‘professional’ bike mechanic. Thanks, Nick, for confirming my right choice.

[@andreluissilva869]

Solution for less missinglink use, hotwax once and topup with bottle wax lube like zerofriction cycling recommend. Then you will have a safe, long lasting low friction chain.

[@manuelelzer2310]

Still less lifespan than recurring immersive wax treatments, as this cleans your chain surprisingly well, even on the inner parts. But yeah, might be a safe route to go.

[@MCDONALD6969]

Just buy new quick links nick

[@paulprice630]

Oh wah. I've reused quick links dozens of times, plus you can just change the quicklink. Ill never not wax a chain again.

[@andrewsiasparks]

Waxing every week? It's more like a hot wax every two months if you dry it off after wet or winter rides. I don't take my bikes in for service so I'm the only one that works on them

[@EduardoDRivera]

I could be wrong... but dont I remeber you guys pushing Wend Wax back in the vlog days?

[@strikeIII]

It was my understanding that you hot wax only a new chain and from there you just clean then drip on new wax until you replace the chain again. That’s what I’ve been doing and been working great. Waxed chains clean up so much easier

[@robinseibel7540]

Or you can hot wax a chain every time. The hot wax treatment does reduce wear better than drip waxes, but the difference isn't huge. I hot wax my chains as needed because I want to extend the life of my drivetrain as long as possible. Besides, it's dead simple and doesn't take long to do.

[@OriginalTrev]

Truly the most important 1st step is stripping a new or used chain to bare steel so the melted wax can form a durable bond with the pins and rollers... Re-waxing is simply a matter of placing your chain in the kitchen sink and pouring boiling water over it to flush out road grit and other contaminants before dipping the chain into the hot melt in your crockpot or double-boiler.

[@drsus0]

staying on top of the wax is no different than staying on top of the oil... except not as crucial as staying on top of the oil with all the extra dirt it tracks to it. and new waxes are nothing like that stuff that would ruin rear mechs. Then add that if you are the type to take the time to wax your chain, chances are you're not running an old-school rear mech that would have this susceptibility to these issues anymore anyway, its likely electronic. and well protected. i would be all for oil since its is much easier to apply and maintain when you have to, but the longer cleanliness and quietness of wax make it worth the effort. and who doesn't keep spare new split links nowadays? but even then, my current quick link is gong on 10 re uses by now.

[@Leo-gt1bx]

And it is so much easier.

[@davidmurphy9151]

Just replace the split link?

[@burlak3182]

I don't understand how can you have accident from quick link failure. I actually had chain failure when my chain broke on two parts (rivet failed), chain just fallen down and I wan't able to propel myself, but that's it. Also lot of people are carrying spare quick link with them in anyway. I also used to.

[@SianaGearz]

More serious accidents are possible, like it can get stuck in the rear wheel and jam it and send you flying. You can never quite predict where a loose chain will decide to wrap itself around. But as you observe the masterlink failure is not the only way a chain can fail and like... you can just live with the minute risk and do things on your own responsibility applying your best judgement. Having the chain be not a mess of grime stuck onto it but actually clean and inspectable for sure helps keeping an eye on its condition as well.

[@burlak3182]

@@SianaGearz I tried to search for some examples of accidents with broken chain, and I wasn't able. Do you know someone who experienced it or did it happened on any race or any example...

[@UltimateTuner10]

Nick is literally the worst part of this show

[@krisztianfekete3277]

So his only issue with wax was reusing quick links?

[@makantahi3731]

no, he has mental problems but he is fixated on wax

[@endtimeslips4660]

he afraid got sue by a random people. i doing waxing and it is the best thing i ever done in my cycling life.

[@miknugget1]

I have had a derailleur and hanger get destroyed by a broken quick link that I believe broke from removing it repeatedly. I was pedaling hard and fast, the chain unhooked when the quick link snapped, the quick link got stuck in a jockey wheel, and it ripped the derailleur and hanger off of my frame. I was reusing the quick link and removing the chain every 4-6 weeks for hot wax and applying drip on wax between hot waxes. I have since changed back to oil for chains.

[@SnaxNoCo]

You could have also just switched to re-usable links instead.

[@SnaxNoCo]

I once fell of my bike because I didn't use the quick release properly, so I went back to riding a Big Wheel.

[@juanmiguelalejandrino]

Pure ignorance.

[@mf0u3021]

The only takeaway from this is about 1second where he says ‘wax it once and then use the drip-on’.

[@TaborKelly]

Connex claims that their 8/9/10/11/12 speed quick links are compatible with all chains. Except 13 speed Campagnolo I guess. KMC also makes some reusable links.

[@infocuslearning]

Sorry Jimmi, Nick is talking rubbish. Quick links just make taking the chain off and on quicker. Whether you wax or not, there are several options and it’s up to the consumer to choose reusable or single use quick links or you can use a chain splitter. For what it’s worth, I reuse KMC quick links a few times until I think they need changing. If I had not changed to wax, I would still be using the original quick link with 10,000 miles on it. Not sure that would be safe.

[@fraserhocks7859]

I love that we are meant to take the advice of a person that has "self confessed" never used wax as to not use wax🤣. I'm now in my mid 50ies. I was waxing my chain back when I was in my teens. Iv broken many many chains (I'm 95kg, so to be expected) and the only time I ever broken a quick link, is when I put it together incorrectly.

[@SianaGearz]

That reminds me of an article in Guardian that said that one should not read Terry Pratchett - by a person who never read Terry Pratchett. Published days after the Pratchett died. One of the most disrespectful and dumb things i have ever read, and you know Internet is a very large place, a lot of it is not very respectful or very insightful.

[@jflabeets1]

“I know the sun comes up every day, but it could be cloudy, I could pass in my sleep, it could not come up, saying it will come up opens me up to liability”. The split link could break for other reasons. I could also get hit by a car while riding or slip on a banana peel thrown at me by a plumber in a red jumpsuit. Waxing a chain is MUCH easier than cleaning the drivetrain.

[@michaelvrbanac6923]

I clean and wax periodically, and I reuse the link. Never an issue.

[@mrhankbotful]

I hot wax my chains and use KMC reusable quick links for 11sp since 11sp is what almost all my bikes run. So far no issues with their quick links, but I replace them every 1500-2000 miles, and wax every 150-200, so around 10x uses each is what I aim for.

[@bitgeist_21]

I couldn't disagree with this guy more regarding chain waxing. This is my first season making the switch and I hot-wax dip my chains in Silca. I can't say how much I enjoy the performance and the cleanliness of the drive train. His quicklink argument, while valid, is weak at best. The chain manufacturers themselves wouldn't make quick link available if they were that prone to failure on a second or third re-implementation. Just my opinion.

[@drazensmarkovic]

I have several road bikes, all with waxed chains (dip-wax). Since I started, I really never looked back, there is nothing better. On my standard training bike, I rewax every 1000 km. As the bike is fairly new, this is second rewaxing, and chain is still like new (minimal stretch). I reuse quicklinks (this one is Sram flat-top), approx. 3-5 times, so one link usually covers life of one chain. So as chain is discarded, so is the quicklink. And before, with dry/wet lube, I've also reused quicklinks similarly. Sometimes, quicklink is not so "snappy" when putting together, so I replace it - but this is miniscule cost in biking world. So, I disagree - quicklinks can be reused, of course in sensible way. And they are much more secure then re-pining we use to do before quicklinks were invented.

[@SandSanta]

I wax chains regularly and the clean chain, and smooth operation is worth the snafu around quick links.

[@cb6866]

Thanks Nic .Jimmi and Emily. , yeah. Wax is the way ! Oil and other lubes attract dirt , causes of wear ! I am OAF , learning about bikes recently , and I'll never use a non wax lube again !!

[@neilmoses3376]

His comments on wax as made me not trust anything he says. I will never go back to oil as i like the easy life

[@rcj4046]

The video title does NOT match the content of the video. That makes it CLICK BAIT. Thus, I'll be less likely to watch anything this channel posts in the future because I DON'T LIKE BEING CLICK-BAITED.

[@suaibmahmudpalash6155]

using wax in my chain for 3 years, never faces these issues they have told. yes there are exceptions, but not in every cases. so do whatever you do, i'm happy using paraffin wax. may be his sponsor is someone from lube company.

[@notjulesatall]

I understand the concerns from a bike shop perspective, but at some point you have to recognize that customers are very happy with chain wax, and Shimano should provide hot melt friendly products just like Wippermann does to make it safer for people to snap and unsnap their chains.

[@Baddco]

Never had a problem with split link reuse. And on at least 5/6 rides per waxing what does a new link cost £7,less than a pack of Park Drives.

[@MatthewBlue-yg1wk]

I’ll never go back to oil, wax is much cleaner , easy to maintain and easy to Re wax. Reusing master link not a problem here.

[@lazurm]

Note the obvious, the interviewee doesn't advise using wax because he feels he can't advise using the "split link" more than once as it opens him up to legal liability if the link would break after using it more than once. What he was afraid to say is that people do use them more than once without issue except in extremely rare instances. Fact is, though, that Wipperman and YBN advise that their quick links can be used as often as needed until worn (Wipperman) or up to 5 times (YBN). I've noted that my waxed chains are MUCH cleaner and, as a result, last twice as long, and more, than using the "best" oil based bicycle chain lubes. It is easy to change a chain so I've been waxing every 200 miles. If one keeps, for example, 3 chains ready, one only needs to do a drip wax once every 600 miles or so.

[@ilhm474]

oiler detected - opinion rejected

[@Leo-gt1bx]

Good one 😂