Bike grease

Bike grease is a thick lubricant for threads, bearings and parts that press together. A thin coat stops bolts from seizing, keeps out water and stops many creaks.

What it's used for

• Pedal threads. See replace pedals.
• Metal seatposts in metal frames. Park Tool greases these to stop seizing (Park Tool). See set saddle height.
• Crank bolt threads and under the bolt head, but not on a square taper. See check cranks and the bottom bracket.
• The headset top cap bolt. See adjust a loose headset.

What to look for

• A bike grease. Park Tool describes PPL-1 as a polyurea grease for bearings, threads and press-fit parts such as headsets, bottom brackets, cranks, pedals and hubs (Park Tool PPL-1).
• Carbon needs different stuff. Park Tool says carbon frame and post pairs often go in dry, and a post that slips can use an assembly compound instead (Park Tool).
• Keep it off paint and brakes. Park Tool warns some painted surfaces are sensitive to grease, so wipe off extra right away (Park Tool PPL-1). Never let grease reach brake pads or rotors.

Best price we found

• Park Tool PPL-1 PolyLube 1000, 4 oz tube at Park Tool: $10.95, checked Nov 9, 2026 (shown as out of stock)

Prices change often, and a local shop may match them.

Where to buy

1. The maker, such as Park Tool.
2. A large bike retailer.
3. A local shop, through find a shop.

Videos

Guides that use it

• Replace pedals
• Set saddle height and position
• Check cranks and the bottom bracket
• Check and adjust a loose headset

Sources

• Park Tool PPL-1, parktool.com
• Park Tool, parktool.com
• HPG-1 High Performance Grease, youtube.com
• How & Where To Use Grease, Fiber Grip, Threadlock + Anti Seize On Your Bike, youtube.com

Stuck after these checks? Find a shop near you.