Overheard a customer at the shop say 'just use any grease, it's all the same' and it made me think

I was cleaning up a workbench and this guy was telling his buddy to use regular automotive grease on his bike's headset bearings. He said it was cheaper and 'does the same thing.' I didn't say anything, but I've seen what happens. That stuff can get gummy and attract grit, especially in places like a bottom bracket. I mean, maybe it's just me, but I always use a proper bike bearing grease, like Park Tool Polylube or something similar. It's made for the loads and the weather. Has anyone else had to fix a bike that was packed with the wrong grease? What's the worst damage you've seen from it?

2 comments

2 Comments

claire9921mo ago

Honestly though, is it that big of a deal? Seen plenty of bikes run fine on auto grease for years.

mary8361mo ago

Tbh that's like saying you can use cooking oil in your car's engine.