Frequently asked questions
Get answers to the most frequently asked questions about the Squirt Cycling Products range, including user instructions and technical issues. Click on the product category below and find your questions and answers.
- Squirt Barrier Balm
- Squirt Biodegradable Bike Cleaner
- Squirt Chain Lube
- Squirt E-bike Chain Wax
- Squirt Low Temperature Chain Lube
- Squirt SEAL Tyre Sealant
Squirt should be stored between 40℉ and 95℉ with the cap on. If it freezes (below 32℉, 0℃) or dries out, it becomes thick. It can be restored to a creamy liquid by adding a little water and shaking it up (normally about 10% of water).
Even though it is ideal for riding in cold conditions, Squirt Low Temperature chain Lube should be stored between 40℉ and 95℉ with the cap on. If it freezes (below 32℉, 0℃) or dries out, it becomes thick. It can be restored to a creamy liquid by adding a little water and shaking it up (normally about 10% of water).
If stored under recommended conditions, the lube will last for many years. Stability samples of older than 15 years still retain functionality.
If stored under recommended conditions, the lube will last for many years.
All our chain lubes are biodegradable wax/water emulsions together with additives to prevent component wear. We continually monitor the quality of the waxes we use to ensure we meet the highest standards and legislative compliance. Using newer generation fully refined waxes can result in natural separation of the emulsion if left standing for long periods of time. If you find that your bottle of Squirt Chain Lube has a visible separation layer in the bottom, this is normal. When shaken well before application, this does not affect the performance of the lube. For optimal performance, follow the user application instructions on the bottle label or on the section in this FAQ.
The small black particles are normal on stationary trainers. This also happens when on the road or trails, one just does not see it. It is the hard-wax components of Squirt shedding from the chain. Excess wax and dirt trapped sheds via this method. You may find that more wax accumulates on the chain of your trainer – this is due the chain not vibrating/shaking enough to promote shedding. Our biodegradability rating is therefore important as it would end up in the natural environment.
De-greasing is not necessary when you’ve been using Squirt Long Lasting Chain Lube. It does not form a black build-up like oils that traps dirt to accelerate chain wear. It does not smudge and stays dry. Brush off with dry brush if needed and remove occasional build-up from rear derailleur wheels with a toothpick.
We generally do not advise too frequent deep-cleaning as it removes all embedded wax from inside the chain and a two-coat reapplication of the lube will be required as per the application instructions. However, cleaning should be handled on a case-by-case basis such as when you hear the chain grinding after a muddy ride, because this implies that excessive dirt entered the chain that needs to be washed out.
On bike cleaning
For on-bike cleaning, usually two rounds using a clamp-on type cleaner (such as Park Tool CG-2.4) and our Squirt biodegradable Bike Cleaner product is adequate. Rinse well with clean water and reapply two coats of lube as per the application instructions.
Thorough Cleaning
For a more intensive clean, use about 1-2 litres of boiling water and pour slowly over the bottom span of the chain (between the rear derailleur and chainring) while turning the cranks backwards. This melts the wax and rinses it out of the chain together with trapped dirt. Follow this up with a couple rounds using the clamp-on type cleaner until the cleaning solution is not visibly dirty anymore. Always rinse well with clean water and reapply two coats of lube as per the application instructions.
Deep Cleaning
For deep cleaning, the chain can be removed and degreased with a couple of rounds of soaking/shaking/rinsing in an organic solvent like kerosene or white spirits or a dedicated degreaser product. Follow this up with a rinse in solvent like IPA (Isopropyl Alcohol) or methylated spirits to remove any possible residue left by the degreasers and reapply two coats of lube as per the application instructions. Discard all chemicals in an environmentally responsible way. Specialist workshops have ultrasonic cleaners that work well, and the user instruction of the device should be followed.
De-greasing is not necessary when you’ve been using Squirt Low Temperature Chain Lube. It does not form a black build-up like oils that traps dirt to accelerate chain wear. It does not smudge and stays dry. Brush off with dry brush if needed and remove occasional build-up from rear derailleur wheels with a toothpick.
We generally do not advise too frequent deep-cleaning as it removes all embedded wax from inside the chain and a two-coat reapplication of the lube will be required as per the application instructions. However, cleaning should be handled on a case-by-case basis such as when you hear the chain grinding after a muddy ride, because this implies that excessive dirt entered the chain that needs to be washed out.
On bike cleaning
For on-bike cleaning, usually two rounds using a clamp-on type cleaner (such as Park Tool CG-2.4) and our Squirt biodegradable Bike Cleaner product is adequate. Rinse well with clean water and reapply two coats of lube as per the application instructions.
Thorough Cleaning
For a more intensive clean, use about 1-2 litres of boiling water and pour slowly over the bottom span of the chain (between the rear derailleur and chainring) while turning the cranks backwards. This melts the wax and rinses it out of the chain together with trapped dirt. Follow this up with a couple rounds using the clamp-on type cleaner until the cleaning solution is not visibly dirty anymore. Always rinse well with clean water and reapply two coats of lube as per the application instructions.
Deep Cleaning
For deep cleaning, the chain can be removed and degreased with a couple of rounds of soaking/shaking/rinsing in an organic solvent like kerosene or white spirits or a dedicated degreaser product. Follow this up with a rinse in solvent like IPA (Isopropyl Alcohol) or methylated spirits to remove any possible residue left by the degreasers and reapply two coats of lube as per the application instructions. Discard all chemicals in an environmentally responsible way. Specialist workshops have ultrasonic cleaners that work well, and the user instruction of the device should be followed.
De-greasing is not necessary when you’ve been using Squirt E-Bike Chain Wax. It does not form a black build-up like oils that traps dirt to accelerate chain wear. It does not smudge and stays dry. Brush off with dry brush if needed and remove occasional build-up from rear derailleur wheels with a toothpick.
We generally do not advise too frequent deep-cleaning as it removes all embedded wax from inside the chain and a two-coat reapplication of the lube will be required as per the application instructions. However, cleaning should be handled on a case-by-case basis such as when you hear the chain grinding after a muddy ride, because this implies that excessive dirt entered the chain that needs to be washed out.
On bike cleaning
For on-bike cleaning, usually two rounds using a clamp-on type cleaner (such as Park Tool CG-2.4) and our Squirt biodegradable Bike Cleaner product is adequate. Rinse well with clean water and reapply two coats of lube as per the application instructions.
Thorough Cleaning
For a more intensive clean, use about 1-2 litres of boiling water and pour slowly over the bottom span of the chain (between the rear derailleur and chainring) while turning the cranks backwards. This melts the wax and rinses it out of the chain together with trapped dirt. Follow this up with a couple rounds using the clamp-on type cleaner until the cleaning solution is not visibly dirty anymore. Always rinse well with clean water and reapply two coats of lube as per the application instructions.
Deep Cleaning
For deep cleaning, the chain can be removed and degreased with a couple of rounds of soaking/shaking/rinsing in an organic solvent like kerosene or white spirits or a dedicated degreaser product. Follow this up with a rinse in solvent like IPA (Isopropyl Alcohol) or methylated spirits to remove any possible residue left by the degreasers and reapply two coats of lube as per the application instructions. Discard all chemicals in an environmentally responsible way. Specialist workshops have ultrasonic cleaners that work well, and the user instruction of the device should be followed.
It depends on riding conditions. In general, when you start hearing a dry chain noise, re-application is already due. In wet, muddy conditions it will not last as long as in dry-dust free conditions. In general, from 30 to 300 miles on one application – the chain will stay clean. If you expect riding in wet conditions, lube your chain the day before if possible.
It depends on riding conditions. In general, when you start hearing a dry chain noise, re-application is already due. In wet, muddy conditions it will not last as long as in dry-dust free conditions. In general, from 30 to 300 miles on one application – the chain will stay clean. If you expect riding in wet conditions, lube your chain the day before if possible.
First time user:
1. Completely remove factory grease and other lubricants from your chain using a degreaser.
2. Rinse your chain with clean water and let it dry.
3. Follow the application instructions below and repeat after 5 minutes.
Application Instructions
1. Shake bottle and apply to inside of DRY chain while turning the cranks.
2. Do not wipe off.
3. Allow chain to dry completely before cycling – especially in wet conditions.
4. Do not degrease again.
A: First time user:
1. Completely remove factory grease and other lubricants from your chain using a degreaser.
2. Rinse your chain with clean water and let it dry.
3. Follow the application instructions below and repeat after 5 minutes.
Application Instructions:
1. Shake bottle and apply to inside of DRY chain while turning the cranks.
2.Do not wipe off.
3. Allow chain to dry completely before cycling – especially in wet conditions. Do not degrease again.
NOTE:
For best results in cold temperatures (to enable the water-carrier in SLT to evaporate and not freeze on the chain), apply indoors at a warmer temperature and allow to dry completely – preferably overnight.
First time user:
1. Completely remove factory grease and other lubricants from your chain using a degreaser.
2. Rinse your chain with clean water and let it dry.
3. Follow the application instructions below and repeat after 5 minutes.
Application Instructions:
1. Shake bottle and apply to inside of DRY chain while turning the cranks.
2.Do not wipe off.
3. Allow chain to dry completely before cycling – especially in wet conditions. Do not degrease again.
Yes. All Squirt Chain lubes and chain wax should be started on a clean, properly de-greased and dry chain. Factory grease on a new chain should be removed with organic solvent if needed. A second application five minutes after the first is recommended when starting out with Squirt.
Yes. All Squirt Chain Lubes and chain wax should be started on a clean, properly de-greased and dry chain. Factory grease on a new chain should be removed with organic solvent if needed. A second application five minutes after the first is recommended when starting out with Squirt.
Yes. Squirt should be started on a clean, properly de-greased and dry chain. Factory grease on a new chain should be removed with organic solvent if needed. A second application ten minutes after the first is recommended when starting out with Squirt.
Squirt Long Lasting Chain Lube is the original, first to market wax/water emulsion chain lube for use above freezing in all conditions. Low-Temperature Chain Lube: Solid wax hardens below freezing point (32℉, 0) impairing lubing function. Low-Temp contains wax modifier that keeps the wax consistency optimal at these temperatures (0℉ to 32℉, -18℃ to 0℃). E-Bike Chain Wax contains high-pressure additives to deal with generally higher rotational force on e-bike drive trains. These lubes are interchangeable but the full benefit of each negated without proper de-greasing when changing.
If stored under recommended conditions, the lube will last for many years. Stability samples of older than 15 years still retain functionality.
Squirt Long Lasting Chain Lube is the original, first to market wax/water emulsion chain lube for use above freezing in all conditions. Low-Temperature Chain Lube: Solid wax hardens below freezing point (32℉, 0) impairing lubing function. Low-Temp contains wax modifier that keeps the wax consistency optimal at these temperatures (0℉ to 32℉, -18℃ to 0℃). E-Bike lube contains high-pressure additives to deal with generally higher rotational force on e-bike drive trains. These lubes are interchangeable but the full benefit of each negated without proper de-greasing when changing.
Squirt E-Bike Chain Wax should be stored between 40℉ and 95℉ with the cap on. If it freezes (below 32℉, 0℃) or dries out, it becomes thick. It can be restored to a creamy liquid by adding a little water and shaking it up (normally about 10% of water).
No, it does not clog up the valves from the inside and you will be able to top-up at any time and also inflate as you need.
In rare cases the sealant might solidify prematurely to form solid pieces of rubber in the tire. This is due to two factors; chemical contamination and CO₂ bombing with the valve at 6 o’clock (bottom) position. Chemical contamination usually occurs from the mold release agent used during the manufacturing of tires. New tires should be cleaned properly with liquid soap and rinsed with water to remove manufacturing chemical residue.
The second probable cause for solids formation (bombing at 6 o’clock position) is due to the extreme cold stream of CO₂ jetting into the puddle of sealant at the bottom of the tire. The sealant can handle sub-zero temperatures to -4 ℉ (-20℃) without freezing, but not that which comes from the sudden expansion of the high-pressure gas into the immediate surrounding low-pressure atmosphere into the puddle. This causes the sealant emulsion to solidify, hence forming lumps.
Yes, it’s normal no cause for concern.
The latex part of the sealant was absorbed into the tire to seal rubber porosity, especially in tubeless-ready tires and thin-walled racing tires which are more porous. This seals the side walls and less frequent air top-ups will be required. Remove the remainder of the translucent liquid in the tire and top-up with fresh sealant.
CO₂ can be used in emergencies with sealant, baring in mind that the bomb should only be activated with the valve at the top (i.e. 12 o’clock) position. The cold blast of gas directly into the sealant can lead to local solidification of most latex-based sealants with resulting lumps.
We recommend 3-5ml per 100ml-150ml as per the instructions on the label.
Yes, you can. There is an optimum level though where-after more kernels will not seal more effectively.
The Biodegradable Bike Cleaner Super Concentrate is our Bike Cleaner in most concentrated form. It is also more economically priced for those that prefer to mix their own bike cleaner in the concentration they prefer. The standard Concentrate is ideal for bike wash bays where mixing of small sachets is too time consuming. It is not as concentrated as the 30 ml sachets. The Ready-to-use Foam Spray is conveniently pre-diluted and can be sprayed directly onto your bicycle for general cleaning.
Our Biodegradable Bike Cleaner Super Concentrate can be used as a bike wash solution by diluting 1 x 30 ml sachet with 720 ml clean water. The most convenient way to dilute your super concentrate is to pour the contents of a 30 ml Super Concentrate Sachet into a 750 ml spray bottle and fill it with 720 ml water. Shake to make sure the concentrate is dissolved completely before using it as a bike cleaner to spray directly onto your bike. For mild degreasing, use one 1 x 30 ml sachet with 190 ml clean water. Always test your solution on a small area of the material before continuing.
Depending on how stubborn the dirt/grease that you want to remove is, the Super Concentrate can be diluted to a strengh of 1 x 30 ml sachet +190 ml water. Stronger dilutions are not recommended. Standard concentrate can be used to a dilution of 1:5 for stubborn dirt or undiluted for mild degreasing. Always test dilution on a small area of the material to ensure safety of use.
Yes, you can use the 30ml Super Concentrate in dilution of one 30 ml Super Concentrate sachet + 190 ml clean water as a mild chain degreaser (1 x 30 ml sachet + 190 ml water). The normal Concentrate can be used undiluted for this purpose. Soak the chain in the solution for at least 30 minutes, rinse with clean water and repeat if necessary.
Squirt Biodegradable Bike Cleaner is a mild and environmentally safe water-based alkaline degreaser free of alkylphenol ethoxylates (APEO), nonylphenol (NP) and phosphates. Although phosphates are not harmful to humans, anthropogenic (man-made) inputs of phosphorus are well known to have a significant impact on ecosystems and can damage the health of rivers and lakes (eutrophication). Squirt Biodegradable Bike Cleaner is biodegradable according to EEC Objectives 73/404/EEC (biodegradation of surfactants with a Prim.Degra. of > 90%) and does not contain any paraffin solvents, glycols or any glycol ethers.
Yes, Squirt Biodegradable Bike Cleaner is safe to use on steel, aluminum, carbon, rubber and most fabric garments.
It depends on riding conditions. In general, when you start hearing a dry chain noise, re-application is already due. In wet, muddy conditions it will not last as long as in dry-dust free conditions. In general, from 30 to 300 miles on one application – the chain will stay clean. If you expect riding in wet conditions, lube your chain the day before if possible.
Squirt Chain Lube is the original, first to market wax/water emulsion chain lube for use above freezing in all conditions. Low-Temp: Solid wax hardens below freezing point (32℉, 0) impairing lubing function. Low-Temp contains wax modifier that keeps the wax consistency optimal at these temperatures (0℉ to 32℉, -18℃ to 0℃). E-Bike lube contains high-pressure additives to deal with generally higher rotational force on e-bike drive trains. These lubes are interchangeable but the full benefit of each negated without proper de-greasing when changing.
For general tips on repairing and maintaining your bicycle, read this article on Bicycling Magazine’s website.