Q What's the best way to remove sand from a bike chain? If I got a bike with a belt drive, would sand be a problem?
A This is a common problem this time of year, especially if you rode your bike during the warm spells this winter when it was wet, but before winter street sand was swept up.
Cleaning sand from a chain depends on what's been used on it, said Dwight Gronlund, owner of Nokomis Cycle in Minneapolis.
In many cases, removing sand is a matter of letting the bike dry and using a rag or a brush to sweep away the sand. Sand sticks when wet, but falls away easily when dry, he said, adding that it's a good idea to wipe down the whole bike. Usually, if the chain is sandy, the whole bike is sandy.
This method won't work on chains that have been lubed; they attract sand.
In that case, you'll have to first use a degreaser. Let the bike dry completely before relubing, otherwise the degreaser will just attack the lube.
Chain-cleaning chores can be hired out. Gronlund cleans chains in a parts washer as part of a spring bike tuneup for about $90 ($40 for just a chain clean and lube).
Belt drives are relatively new. In a perfect world, sand wouldn't be a problem. But when riding in the rain, they can still pick up dirt, Gronlund said. Contact the belt manufacturer for cleaning and care instructions, he said.
