Why hot wax is faster than oil or liquid wax

Ever wonder why pro teams are making the switch to hot wax? It’s not just about having a clean chain. It’s about having a faster chain.

Faq

If you’ve been using oil or liquid wax to lube your chain, here’s the simple truth: they’re liquid. That means they’re sticky. And sticky things attract dirt, grime, and whatever else the road throws at you.


Hot wax? 100% dry.

 
Instead of attracting dirt, it repels it, keeping your drivetrain clean and friction-free.

And when your drivetrain stays clean, you save watts. It's that simple. 

The Science: Hot Wax Gets Faster Over Time


We put this theory to the test. Here’s what we found:

  • At the start of a ride, an oil-lubed is actually faster than a hot waxed one.
  • As the ride goes on, dirt starts to build up on the oil-lubed chain, making it slower and increasing drivetrain resistance.
  • Meanwhile, the hot-waxed chain stays clean and fast.
  • After a couple of hours? The difference is quite impressive, up to 4 watts in normal weather & road conditions. 

Greg van avermaet bike trip

Paris-Roubaix


The difference between an oil-lubed chain and a hot waxed one becomes even more significant in "less optimal conditions", a race like Paris-Roubaix for example.

250km of pure "joy" in dirty, sandy and challenging circumstances.

The further you ride, the bigger the difference in watts.

You can imagine what this must feel like for a pro cyclist riding the last 10km of Paris-Roubaix with the leaders, knowing you're 8 watts faster than your competitor riding an oil-lubed chain.


Pocket wax Cyclowax

What does this mean for you?


  • More speed, less effort. Every watt saved is energy you can use to go further and faster.
  • A longer-lasting drivetrain. Less dirt = less wear = fewer expensive replacements.
  • A cleaner bike, always. No more grimy chains, blackened cassettes, or oil-stained socks.

The numbers don’t lie. If you’re still using oil or liquid wax, it’s time to make the switch. 


Greg Van Avermaet with cyclowax chain bike

Ready to go faster?

Check out our hot wax kits and join the club of an always clean chain.

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