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When do I need to lubricate the cables on my bike?
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Before the advent of plastic-lined cables, it was necessary to regularly use heavy oil or grease to lubricate the cables inside brake and derailleur cable housings. Thanks to plastic-lined cables, this procedure is largely obsolete. There are however a few points on the modern bicycle that can use an occasional oiling. The small section of cable near the rear derailleur and the sharp bends in cantilever brakes are two points on the bicycle that merit some attention to lubrication.
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How do I lubricate the rear derailleur cable?
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The sharp bend of the shift cable near the rear derailleur means the cable sees more stress than cables running relatively straight routes. Occasionally lubricating this section of cable will help to ensure your rear derailleur keeps functioning properly.
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- Wrench (probably 10mm)
- Pliers
- Grease
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Loosen the pinch bolt that holds the cable to the rear derailleur.
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Work the inner cable backward through the housing. This should expose the previously hidden part of the inner cable.
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Apply grease (not WD-40) to the inner cable.
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Slide the housing back and forth to make sure inner cable is thoroughly lubricated.
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Place the rear derailleur cable housing back into the cable stops on your frame.
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Pull the cable tight with pliers and re-tighten the pinch bolt.
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For more information on servicing your rear derailleur, see our article “How to Adjust a Rear Derailleur.”
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How do I lubricate cantilever brakes?
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The section of cable that articulates cantilever brakes positioned near the seat post rests at a sharper angle than most other cables on your bike. A little lubrication from time to time will help to ensure this section of cable does not impede your smooth stopping ability.
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- Wrench (probably 8mm)
- Pliers
- Grease
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Loosen the pinch bolt that connects the brake cable to the rear cantilever brake.
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With the additional slack in the cable line, work the cable housing near the seat post out of the cable stops on the frame.
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Slide the cable housing to expose the inner cable.
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Grease thoroughly, sliding the housing back and forth to get even coverage.
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Replace the cable housing in the cable stops on the frame.
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Pull the brake cable tight through the pinch bolt with pliers and tighten it.
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For more information on your cantilever brakes, see our article “How to Adjust Cantilever Brakes.”
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