How to Hot Wax
The CyclOn Pro Chain Hot Wax was developed in collaboration with the CyclOn-sponsored professional teams Team SD Worx Pro Time and Unibet Rose Rockets. During the testing phase, these teams tested the product in the toughest and most challenging races. The ultimate test took place last year during the Tour de France Femmes, where Lorena Wiebes achieved two stage victories with chains prepared by us using the CyclOn Pro Chain Hot Wax.
Hot waxing may sound complicated, but it's easier than you might think. In this blog, we'll explain exactly how it works!
Step 1 – Thoroughly degrease the chain
A good wax layer starts with a clean chain. Use CyclOn Pro Chain Stripper to remove all old oil, grease, and dirt residues.
Cleaning with Pro Chain Stripper
The Pro Chain Stripper is our most powerful chain cleaner. It removes factory grease, old oil, and stubborn dirt and works directly on the chain. Choose the method that suits your situation.
Option 1: Directly on the chain
-
Place your bicycle stably or hang it up, ensuring the pedals can rotate freely.
-
Pour the Pro Chain Stripper into a water bottle or container. Dip the detailing brush into the liquid and apply it to the chain. Brush the chain clean while slowly turning the pedals.
-
Loosen the dirt with the CyclOn Detailing Brush. Brush each link on the inside and outside.
-
Allow it to soak in briefly so that the product can penetrate deep into the links.
-
Rinse the chain thoroughly with water and turn the pedals a few more times.
-
Carefully dry the chain with a clean cloth.
Option 2: Soak and shake
-
Remove the chain from the bicycle.
-
Place the chain in a water bottle or sealable container and pour enough Pro Chain Stripper until the chain is completely submerged.
-
Close, shake vigorously, and let it soak for a few minutes.
-
Remove the chain, rinse well with water, and dry carefully.
Option 3: Ultrasonic cleaner
-
Remove the chain from the bicycle.
-
Place the chain in the ultrasonic cleaner and fill with Pro Chain Stripper.
-
Start the program so that the vibrations carry the product deep into the links.
-
After a few minutes, remove the chain from the ultrasonic cleaner.
-
Rinse thoroughly with water and dry carefully.
After cleaning
The chain is now bare and completely free of grease and dirt. This is the perfect time to start waxing.
Step 2 – Apply wax
-
Heat the wax to 75–85°C. This can be done in several ways:
-
In a wax heater.
-
In a saucepan on a stovetop (low heat).
-
By placing the bag in boiling water.
-
-
Submerge the chain in the molten wax and let it soak for 15 minutes. This ensures the wax fully penetrates the links.
-
Allow the chain to harden:
-
Remove the chain from the wax and hang it to allow excess wax to drip off.
-
Wait until the wax has fully hardened before mounting the chain.
-
Tips:
-
Use tongs or gloves to safely remove the chain from the hot wax.
-
Avoid skin contact, as the wax can be hot enough to cause burns.
Step 3 – Mount the chain and ride
-
Mount the chain on your bicycle according to the usual instructions.
-
After about 10 minutes of riding, the chain will be fully run in and ready for optimal use.
-
Enjoy a super quiet, clean, and efficient drivetrain!
Maintenance tips:
-
Does the chain sound dry or do you hear slight squeaks?
-
Repeat the waxing procedure, or use CyclOn Pro Chain Wax or CyclOn Wax Lube for relubrication.
-
-
Avoid oil lubricants directly on the wax layer; this can reduce its effectiveness.