This keeps your chain or belt drive quiet, efficient and long-lasting. Includes intervals, step-by-step care, troubleshooting and a compact quick guide.

Key Basics

Chain drive (chain + cassette/derailleur or hub gear)

Cleaning: remove coarse dirt with a brush, clean the chain with chain cleaner/degreaser, wipe dry.
Lubrication: apply 1 drop per link, turn the pedals 5–10 revolutions, wipe off excess oil (otherwise it attracts dirt).
Oil choice: Dry for dry/dusty; Wet for rain; Ceramic/Wax for very clean chains (requires more frequent reapplication).
Wear: check regularly with a chain gauge; if exceeded, replace chain → check chainrings/cassette.

Interval (guideline): lubricate every 200–400 km (more often in rain or on gravel); replace chain depending on use every 2,000–4,000 km.

Belt drive (e.g. Gates)

Care: no oil, no grease. Rinse belt and pulleys with water, use a soft brush, let dry.
Tension & alignment: check belt tension regularly, keep belt centred on pulleys (no side rubbing).
Noise: rinse briefly with water; if noise persists → have tension/alignment checked by your dealer.

Interval (guideline): visual inspection & cleaning every 500–1,000 km; tension check during service.

E-bike specifics

Torque: High motor power puts stress on the drive – regular care significantly extends its lifespan.
Shifting under load: briefly ease pedal pressure while shifting (protects chain/belt & sprockets).
Hub gear/belt: very low maintenance, but still check visually & monitor belt tension.

Quick Guide: I want to … → Here’s how

Goal

Steps

Note

Quickly clean & oil the chain

Turn chain with a cloth & wipe off → apply cleaner → dry → 1 drop per link → wipe off excess.

No oil on the brake!

Clean the belt

Rinse with water, use soft brush → let dry. No oils/grease/sprays.

Noise? Check tension

Shift smoothly (derailleur)

Give shift impulse → briefly ease pedal pressure → let gear engage → continue pedalling.

Gentle on the drivetrain

Check for wear

Use chain gauge / inspect belt condition → if anything unusual, book a service appointment.

Regular care = lower cost

Note: Always clean briefly after rain or mud – sand acts like sandpaper.

Troubleshooting & FAQs

Chain squeaks / runs rough

Clean & re-lubricate, remove excess; check chain line; fine-tune the gears.

Belt squeaks

Rinse with water; if still noisy → have belt tension/alignment checked by dealer. Do not use lubricants.

Gears not shifting smoothly

Check cable tension/fine adjuster; for hub gears, align the markings; if unsure, visit your dealer.

How do I protect the drivetrain in winter?

Clean more often, use “Wet” chain oil (for chains); clean belt with water; rinse off salt after riding.

Quick check after rain/gravel (2–3 minutes)

Rinse/wipe the drivetrain with water (no pressure washer).
Chain: dry & lightly oil • Belt: dry only (no oil!).
Check sprockets/pulleys for stones or sand.
Test ride: does it shift quietly, no creaking? If not, contact your dealer.

Drive, maintenance & care

Any questions left?