Can You Use Simple Green to Clean a Bike?

Yes, Simple Green is a widely used and effective cleaner for various parts of a bicycle, particularly for degreasing the drivetrain components like the chain and gears. Its versatile formula helps break down grease, oil, and grime, making it a popular choice for bike maintenance.

Cleaning Your Bike with Simple Green

Simple Green, especially the original all-purpose cleaner, can be an excellent addition to your bike cleaning kit. It's important to use it properly, especially when dealing with different parts of your bike.

Targeting the Drivetrain: The Chain

The chain and gears are often the dirtiest parts of a bike, accumulating a mix of oil, dirt, and road grime. Simple Green is highly effective here.

• Initial Wipe-Down: To begin, use a cloth soaked in Simple Green to loosely wrap around the chain, and run the pedal so the chain moves through the cloth. This initial pass helps to remove the surface layer of dirt and old lubricant.
• Deep Cleaning for Grime: For dirtier chains, you'll need to use a scrub brush or toothbrush to work out the grime, being careful to work out any buildup between the gears. Apply Simple Green directly to the brush and scrub the chain, cogs, and derailleur pulleys thoroughly.
• Cassette Cleaning: Don't forget to clean the cassette (rear gears) and chainrings (front gears) with a brush to remove all gunk.

General Bike Frame and Component Cleaning

Simple Green can also be used to clean the bike's frame, wheels, and other components. It's usually recommended to dilute Simple Green for general cleaning tasks to prevent any potential residue or strong concentration on painted surfaces.

• Frame and Wheels: Spray a diluted solution onto the bike frame, forks, wheels, and handlebars. Use a soft sponge or microfiber cloth to wipe away dirt and grime. Avoid letting the solution dry on the bike, especially in direct sunlight.
• Brake Calipers/Rotors (Caution): While Simple Green can clean these areas, ensure thorough rinsing and avoid direct spraying into brake pads or disc brake rotors, as residue could affect braking performance.

Important Steps After Cleaning

After using Simple Green, proper follow-up is crucial for bike longevity and performance:

1. Thorough Rinsing: Always rinse your bike thoroughly with clean water after cleaning with Simple Green. This removes all cleaning solution and loosened dirt, preventing potential residue buildup.
2. Drying: Dry the bike with a clean towel or allow it to air dry. For the drivetrain, it's particularly important to ensure it's completely dry before lubrication.
3. Lubrication: Crucially, after degreasing and cleaning the chain, you must re-lubricate it. Apply a suitable chain lubricant to every link, then wipe off any excess. This protects the chain from rust and ensures smooth, efficient pedaling. Lubricate pivot points on derailleurs and brakes as well.

Why Choose Simple Green for Bike Cleaning?

• Effective Degreaser: Excellent at breaking down tough grease and oil, making it ideal for the drivetrain.
• Biodegradable Formula: Many Simple Green products are biodegradable, offering an environmentally friendlier cleaning option compared to harsher chemical degreasers.
• Versatile: Can be used on various surfaces of the bike, from metal components to painted frames, when properly diluted.

Tips for Best Results

• Dilute Appropriately: Always dilute Simple Green according to the task and the product's instructions to ensure effectiveness without over-concentrating.
• Spot Test: If you're unsure about a specific surface, especially highly polished or sensitive finishes, test a small, inconspicuous area first.
• Avoid Bearings: While safe for general cleaning, try to avoid directly spraying high-pressure Simple Green solution into delicate sealed bearings (e.g., bottom bracket, hubs, headset), as it could potentially strip the internal grease.
• Clean Regularly: Regular cleaning prevents dirt and grime from building up excessively, making each cleaning session easier and quicker.