SEVEN DAY CYCLIST
CYCLING, BUT NOT USUALLY RACING

Materials/Specification

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In common with its speed sibling, the Assembly Grease is made from synthetic base oils and synthetic Esters. The latter are apparently cultivated from natural sources and more carefully synthesised than generic synthetic oils. These are blended for optimal bond to surfaces, employing an electrochemical bond with the host-metals. 

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Theoretically this means its more evenly distributed for optimal protection/lubrication without any unwanted chemical reaction, say between steel/aluminium alloy/titanium, composites etc. High resistance to washout means it should stay put, protecting against pitting and other damage that can ruin headsets and similar components on winter/workhorses. Especially mountain bikes, or those subjected to turbo trainer slavery. 

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Application 3.25/5

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Peaty’s say this grease can be applied by hand, brush, or grease gun. Arguably brushing is the most effective technique for seat posts, frame and other larger threaded components: the gun (or gloved fingers) better suited to hubs and headset bearings.

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Though supposedly compatible with most oils, best to strip pre-existing greases, using your solvent/degreaser of choice and drying thoroughly beforehand. In common with other “stiff” greases, a little goes a reasonable distance and adheres nicely without being adversely affected by temperature variance. It turned a little softer when the mercury hit 28 degrees but not runny, or gooey. I was able to reclaim excess from seatposts to treat the collar bolts, three sets of bottle mounts and mudguard/carrier mounts.

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Fixed gear winter trainer and Ursula were the most obvious recipients. Posts, pedals and fasteners were all treated to a moderate helping, although I noticed my 1991 road bike’s Thompson post was showing reluctance to move. A quick blast of penetrant spray and some short, deft taps with an engineer’s mallet sorted that. Once released, I applied a similar amount to the Thompson post and binder bolt, then refitted. 

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​Though I reclaimed the excess for small fasteners and similar little jobs, I left a thin layer around the seat collar, where the post entered to seal out any mischievous wet stuff, without attracting dirt, or transferring to my shorts. Fixed gear trainer and Ursula also sport butyl “boots” to prevent dirt and ingress entering the frame, which would also test the grease’s rubber-friendly credentials.