These affordable 12-speed MTB chains rarely need lube and are whisper quiet

A lot of mountain bikers are curious about the advantages of a waxed chain. Now you can try one for just $45.
All prices and availability are subject to change.

There’s been a lot of interest in waxed chains recently, and KMC is now making it easy to give it a Go. The brand notes that, “compared to oil-based lubricants, waxed chains are less susceptible to dirt build-up, increasing drivetrain life and reducing cleaning intervals.” We’ve found a waxed chain is much quieter too, and can confirm it doesn’t require as much maintenance.

Pre-waxed race chains can cost $100 or more, but KMC has managed to bring the price point down under $50 for their most affordable Go Waxed chain. You could buy wax and do this yourself at home, but the process of cleaning and waxing a chain is messy and time-consuming.

Listen to this podcast interview with Lennard Zinn, or read the transcript, to learn more about the advantages of a waxed chain.

This is also the time of year when you realize your bike just isn’t ready for MTB season. Or maybe your mountain bike is running fine, it just looks a little tired. With these picks, you’ll have your bike looking good AND running good in no time. Plus, it won’t cost a lot. That is, unless you splurge on the gold fork we picked out below. 😉

Pre-waxed KMC chain

Pre-waxed KMC X12 chain

$45.00

KMC pre-waxed chains are compatible with Shimano and SRAM drivetrains, though there isn’t a T-type option at the moment. Prices start at $45.

Buy from Amazon


Colorful shift and dropper cable housing

Colorful shift and dropper cable housing

$24.99

Pre-season is a great time to replace shift and dropper cables and housing if you haven’t done it in a while. You’ll notice better performance, plus it’s a great chance to add some personality to your build!

Buy from Jenson USA


Muc Off Silicon Shine

Muc Off Silicon Shine

$16.49 | $13.99 sale

Silicon shine isn’t just for looks. Mud and grit will slide off your frame more easily, and it can also keep your fork and shock operating smoothly.

Buy from Jenson USA



Miles Wide Sticky Fingers lever covers

Miles Wide Sticky Fingers lever covers

$14.99

Improve grip AND add some color to your cockpit with Sticky Fingers silicon brake lever covers. Available in multiple colors and priced $11.99-14.99.

Buy from Amazon


Park Tool RTP-1 Rescue Tool Pod

Park Tool RTP-1 Rescue Tool Pod

$84.95

So THAT’s what those frame bolts are for! The Park Tool RTP-1 multi-tool attaches to your frame’s accessory mounts and includes pretty much everything you need, including a chain breaker and tire plug tool.

Buy from Jenson USA


Ground Keeper Fancy Fender

Ground Keeper Fancy Fender

$28.00

Fancy indeed! These Ground Keeper fenders are easy to install and are a great way to add some art to your build without making a big commitment.

Buy from Competitive Cyclist



Fox 34 Step Cast Limited Edition

Fox 34 Step Cast Limited Edition

$1,069.00

When Fox released this limited edition Step Cast fork last year, everyone wanted to get their hands on one, even the pros. Now, you can get yours too!

Buy from Worldwide Cyclery


Race Face Chester Grips

Race Face Chester Grips

$27.00

Grips looking pretty worn? Race Face Chester grips are a great choice, and are available in more than a dozen color combos.

Buy from Jenson USA


Muc Off Frame Protection Kit

Muc Off Frame Protection Kit

$99.99 | $64.99 sale

Give your boring black bike a fresh look with this Muc Off frame protection kit.

Buy from Competitive Cyclist



Miles Wide Cable Buddies

Miles Wide Cable Buddies

$11.68

Cable Buddies serve to wrangle the spider’s web at the front of your bike and snap on with ease. Available in black, or a multitude of colors.

Buy from Amazon


All Mountain Style Mud Guard

All Mountain Style Mud Guard

$17.00

An AMS mud guard is a good investment to keep your fork running smoothly.

Buy from Competitive Cyclist


Supacaz Bar Tape

Supacaz Bar Tape

$44.99

Not only does Supacaz bar tape look good, it feels good too while providing excellent grip, even wet.

Buy from Jenson USA




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