1. Liquid Wax: A Big Step Up from Oil, But… It’s Still Liquid
First things first. If you’re using liquid wax instead of traditional chain oil, congratulations! You’ve already made a huge upgrade. Unlike oil, liquid wax isn’t a sticky, dirt-attracting nightmare that turns your chain into a black sludge factory.
But here’s the thing: it’s still liquid. And liquid, by nature, means it’s sticky. Which means it still picks up dirt, dust, and grime while you ride. Your chain may not be as filthy as an oil-lubed one, but it’s not exactly spotless either.
2. Hot Wax: 100% Dry, Always Clean
Now, let’s talk about hot wax, the superior, 100% dry alternative.
Hot wax isn’t just a lubricant; it’s a full drivetrain spa treatment. When you immerse your chain in melted wax, it gets deep into every link and roller and then solidifies into a dry, friction-reducing coating.
✅ No stickiness = No dirt buildup
✅ Fully dry = Chain stays clean, mile after mile
✅ Friction-reducing = Gains you 5 watts (which, in cycling terms, is practically rocket fuel)
3. Maintenance: Hot Wax Does Two Jobs
When you apply liquid wax, you’re layering new wax on top of an old layer of wax. That means your chain isn’t actually getting cleaned.
Hot wax? It’s a two-in-one solution. Every time you re-wax your chain, the process removes dirt while applying fresh, clean wax. It’s like hitting reset on your drivetrain, every single time.
4. Wet Conditions: One Washes Off, the Other Stays Strong
Hit a rainy ride with liquid wax on your chain? Poof, it’s gone. Water rinses it off like soap bubbles down a drain, leaving your drivetrain exposed.
Hot wax? It clings on like a loyal best friend. It doesn’t wash off, meaning you still get proper lubrication, even in the worst conditions.
5. Drying Time: Are You Patient?
If you’re applying liquid wax, you’ll need to let it dry for at least 8 hours before riding.
Hot waxing? It takes 10 minutes —and then you’re good to go.
The Verdict?
Liquid wax is perfect for when you don’t have access to your hot wax setup. Like when you’re on a cycling trip or between full rewaxes. Think of it as a solid backup, but not the main event.
Liquid wax is good. Hot wax is better.
Liquid wax is an upgrade from oil. Hot wax is the upgrade from everything.
