Like all vehicles you own, even a bike requires proper maintenance. You will be surprised at the lifespan of the components of your bike (and of the bike itself) if you clean and lubricate them regularly.
A common concern is whether you can use silicone spray for your bike chains. Before diving into answering the question, however, let’s take a closer look at typical lubricants for bike parts.
The variety of lubricants used for bike maintenance can be a little confusing. If applied correctly, they go a long way to ensure the proper functioning of your bike, extending the life of bike components and improving the ease of use.
What is Silicone?
Silicone is a rubber-like substance with superior sealing and lubricating properties. Silicone can be used for different applications and in many ways, depending on how the silicone is processed and the chemicals added.
Silicone can be molded into pans, used as a manufacturing press, or made into a spray. Each form of silicone meets specific needs.
Although most of us associate silicone with lubrication and coagulation, it is the name of a variety of substances that are organic compounds and contains silicon atoms, the second most abundant substance on the planet.
Depending on how you treat the substance, it can be turned into a liquid oil (silicone lubricant), a resin (silicone lining on the tube), or a rubber-like material (dry silicone packaging).
Like oil, it does not react to most substances; it keeps its greasiness at extreme temperatures, has low friction, and does not rust.
Silicone, in its various forms, is used in aircraft, prostheses devices, body implants, as waterproofing for paper and ceramics, as an insulator, adhesive and, heat resistor.
Because silicone oil is very slippery and not very reactive, it can lubricate just about anything. It works particularly well on porous items, such as locks, hinges, and weapons.
What Is A Silicone Spray?
Silicone spray is a versatile product that can be used at home and in vehicles. It is suitable for lubrication, sealing, and corrosion protection.
Silicone spray can be used on rubber, plastic, metal, and wooden surfaces. It dries quickly and leaves a transparent, odourless, and non-toxic silicone film for long-term protection.The fact that it is an aerosol allows its positioning in places where it is not possible to apply liquid oils or greases, such as mechanisms found in locks and watches, or bearings such as rollers and pulleys.
Can I Use Silicone Spray on My Bike Chain?
In short, you may use silicone spray on your bike chain, but it is not optimal in the long-term. This is because it washes away rather easily, leaving your bike chain exposed. Nevertheless, if your bike is not heavily used, it may not be necessary to get a specific bike chain lube to apply.
Anti-Rust Sprays
Rust is formed when the metal is affected by moisture and oxygen. The humidity can be in the form of water on the surface of a metal bike or in the humidity of the air. Because rust conditions are prevalent, proper prevention is the key to preventing rust on a bike.
For this reason, we recommend anti-rust treatments. Also, it is necessary to clean the bike each time it gets wet. Keeping it dry and in a protected space, such as a closed garage, will prevent water and oxygen from generating rust.
Besides silicone spray, you could also use an antioxidant spray to prevent rust from forming. Here are some brands of antioxidant sprays you may have heard of:
- ACF-50
- GT85
- Motorex Moto Protect
- Muc-Off motorcycle protectant
- Original WD-40
- Scottoiler FS 365
- SDoc100t
- Tech-Cote ACS TC200
- Valvoline Multi Spray
- XCP Rust Blocker
Bottom Line
Silicone spray is an excellent lubricant and can be used for your bike chains if you do not ride frequently. However, as silicone spray has a chance of getting washed out, it would be better for you to get a special bike chain lube if you ride frequently. This saves you effort in re-lubricating your chain.