Mickling...

[hoski]

I find that close attention to the nipple area, possibly accompanied with some form of edible lubricant generally makes people happy.

That'd be where I've been going wrong... something didn't feel quite right using Finish Line...

 

[Fab Foodie]

[QUOTE 3093225, member: 45"]I hold a babywipe against the chain while it's running around a rear sprocket, and then one of the rear mech sprockets for the other side. Because the chain is bent at these points you clear more muck out from in between.[/QUOTE]
Me too, though I'm not to anal about chain crud, as long as there's plenty lube. I don't really buy the grinding paste theory ... oh, and the OP's looks well dry ....

 

[Acesand8s]

I use a tooth brush, and it will help to get rid of it no matter what. You dont want that in there. I actually have a chain cleaning tool that has bristles that makes it really fast, also i use chain cleaner first, and then lube.

 

[oldroadman]

AMAZING. It all seems so simple now. You've all made me a very happy man.

What about grubby nipples...? I clean my rim thoroughly but I always end up with a slight build up muck around the nipples...

Shower more often...!

 

[oldroadman]

Old days method, remove chain, leave to soak in solvent (e.g. kerosene), dry, refit, lube. Sprockets much the same, a pain but works and allows freewheel body to be cleaned. Just not too often!
pro team mechanics wash everything daily, stiff brushes with water/degreaser on transmission, relube, done. Or did when I had the luxury of one to attend to the bike, many moons and a different life ago....