New bike?

IMHO you need to take it off the bike to clean it properly. This can
involve using a chain breaker (e.g. on Shimano chains) or simply opening
a special link by hand (e.g. on Wippermann chains, as I've just learnt
myself). Once removed, they say the easiest way to clean it is to drop
it into a Coke bottle, pour in some solvent (I've heard of both kero and
citrus-based degreaser being used), screw on the cap and shake it up.

Alternatively, you can get on-bike chain-cleaning tools -
complicated-looking contraptions made of clear plastic that have little
cogs and brushes, compartments for cleaning fluid, etc. I've never used
one though - they look too gimmicky. Anyone tried them? Swear by or at
them?


OK, here is a chain cleaning technique I heard about from another ng (you
are gonna love this!!!).

Soak your chain in cheap olive oil, and leave it sitting out somewhere like
a shed overnight. Rats will come along and lick it perfectly clean!

Note that I have not tested this out yet, but just loved the idea of it!
---
DFM