Zefal Bike Wash

Zefal Bike Wash is one of those labour saving bike shampoos reckoned to transform bikes from scuzzy to sparkling with minimal effort and without damaging delicate surfaces. The French marque has gone for a rather distinctive blue, but otherwise it does much the same job and to a similar standard as competitor formulas.

Zefal refers to the Bike Wash as an alkaline liquid containing nonionic surfactants and sequestering agents. Put simply, these burrow beneath the grot, dissolving it on a molecular level, so it flushes away without trace during the rinsing phase. Apparently, this blend also leaves a dirt-repelling, protective glossy film behind afterwards. More about that in a minute...

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Pop bike(s) in your designated washing spot, flick the nozzle open and cover them in that sudsy blanket. Leave for 30 seconds or so, then get busy with your bucket, brush and sponge.

Visually it's a comparatively lively brew, so I was surprised to discover impacted horse manure and other organic gloop requiring second and sometimes third helpings. Swapping the OEM trigger for one with a foaming function delivered a richer, seemingly more potent lather.

Strangely enough, it worked much faster on simple petrochemicals – mineral oil chain lube spatter and home brewed internal frame preserves that had reverted to liquid state in summer's heat. That grimy patina that quickly accumulates in pale bar wraps (especially when the odd roadside mechanical is thrown into the equation) was dismissed with similar panache.

More generous helpings and extending waiting times by a minute or so hasn't dulled or left unsightly streaks in enamel/two-pack paints. Overall results on polished, gloss or satin finishes are pretty sharp.

Several weeks in, I'm prepared to accept something has been lost in translation from French to English, because I'm not convinced by the corrosion-inhibiting prowess of the film it supposedly imparts. It might offer some defence against UV/similar oxidisation, but cheap electroplated fasteners still turned orange at the first hint of a puddle.

Some boutique brands I've used long-term (12 months or more) genuinely impart a rich glossy barrier that seems to offer decent protection from the salt monster, but cheap as chips car wash 'n' wax formulas often achieve better results.

> How to clean and lube your bike chain

Using the same techniques and standing times on matt finishes, which have become increasingly mainstream, the Zefal has done a reasonable job, but in common with other bike washes it leaves behind some glossy residual splodges. These were easily dismissed with a quick shot of matt protectant, then buffed with a soft cloth.

Overall performance seems on par with several household names, but some store-branded formulas represent much better value. True, they're a bit more aggressive to skin and finishes, but this isn't a problem as long as you wear gloves and don't extend waiting times.

Verdict

Reasonably effective but otherwise unremarkable bike shampoo