How is hot wax applied step by step?
Step 1 - Clean the drive
Degrease the drive and chain completely so that they are free of dirt such as oil and grease.
Use a water-soluble degreaser, such as Drivetrain Detox, in which the chain can be immersed. The best method is an ultrasonic cleaner, but we have found that immersing the chain in a bottle of Drivetrain Detox is also sufficient to degrease it effectively.
Rinse the chain with water and dry it with a microfiber cloth. Allow the chain to dry completely or soak it in isopropyl alcohol to remove any water and degreaser residue.
Step 2 - Melting the Wax
Melt Hyper or Wander Wax in a special wax heater such as the Waxifyer, a slow cooker, or an ultrasonic device at 70 to 80 degrees Celsius. Wait until all the wax has liquefied.
Thread the chain through the chain coupler and tighten the clasp securely. Thanks to the chain coupler, you now have a handle on your chain, making it easy to place it into the Waxifyer.
Step 3 - Dip the chain in wax
Immerse the chain completely in the now liquid wax for at least 15 minutes, making sure no air bubbles form. Then slowly remove the chain from the wax and let it cool until it feels cold to the touch. The easiest way to dry your chain is to hang it on the drip dock using the chain coupler.
Step 4 - Follow-up
Once the chain has completely cooled, move each link to ensure it's smooth again. Use a clean microfiber cloth to remove any excess wax from the outside of the chain. Reinstall the chain on your bike, and you're ready to ride.
During the first ride, the excess wax will dissolve and leave flakes on the chainstay and drivetrain. These flakes will come off during the ride or can be removed with a clean, damp microfiber cloth.
Don't worry, Dynamic Wax is biodegradable!
Care after the chain has been waxed.
A waxed chain does not need to be degreased, but it can attract small amounts of dust and light dirt particles. Clean the chain with a clean, dry cloth between waxing applications. Use a dry brush to remove wax residue from other parts of the drivetrain.
If you want to thoroughly clean your bicycle and drivetrain, remove the chain to protect the wax coating from cleaning and degreasing agents.
The wax should be reapplied when the chain sounds "dry". To do this, follow the steps in the waxing instructions, but skip the degreasing step. The waxed chain can be wiped clean and dipped directly into the liquid wax.
Furthermore, a chain that has been treated with hot wax can also be treated with dynamic liquid wax such as Slick Wax or Speed Potion Wax.
After 10-15 repetitions, you should replace the wax in the Waxifyer to prevent dirt from affecting the efficiency and wear of the drivetrain.
Advantages and disadvantages of hot wax
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Advantages:
- It penetrates deep into the chain, providing lasting and rapid lubrication.
- It attracts little dirt and keeps the drivetrain clean.
- Extremely weather-resistant and usable on any terrain.
- Less wear and tear on your drive system, which can double the lifespan of your drive components.
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Disadvantages:
- The application of hot wax requires special materials/equipment, such as: a wax heater, a completely degreased chain and a method for hanging the chain.
- Applying hot wax to the chain takes longer than applying ordinary liquid drip wax.
In summary, hot waxing is an effective and long-lasting solution for lubricating your chain, which is particularly useful on long rides, races, or in harsh conditions. However, the application requires some effort and time.
The dynamic hot waxes: Hyper & Wander Wax
Dynamic Bike Care offers two types of hot wax: Hyper and Wander Wax. This allows you to choose the formula that best suits your riding style and goals.
Hyper Wax is designed for performance and speed.
Wander Wax is designed for durability on long journeys and enjoyable road and bikepacking tours.
The properties of the two waxes can be found in the overview:
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Dynamic Bike Care Hyper hot wax
Dynamic Bike Care Hyper hot wax✔️ The fastest hot wax in the world
✔️ Ensures ultimate friction reduction and minimizes losses in the drivetrain
✔️ Keeps your drivetrain clean and quiet
✔️ Advanced, biodegradable formula
✔️ Developed with UCI World Tour teams
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Dynamic Bike Care Hiking Hot Wax
Dynamic Bike Care Hiking Hot Wax✔️ The ultimate endurance hot wax
✔️ Extremely durable, suitable for all weather conditions and terrain types
✔️ Keeps your drivetrain clean and quiet
✔️ Advanced, biodegradable formula
✔️ Developed with UCI World Tour teams