[blndebmbr]

So here is where it really starts to get fun (and dirty). Now again, there are many methods out there for cleaning chains, this is just one of them. It works well with my bike so I continue with it.

I start out with finding a level surface and put my bike on the rear stand as shown in the picture. Putting your bike on a rear stand is intimidating the first time, but don't worry you can do it!!!! If you hold the bike with your weight, place the stand behind the rear wheel and try to center it. Once you have both spools connected to the stand (if you are using a spool stand)the bike will "balance" in the stand. You can then let go of the bike (not the stand) move to the rear wheel and lift the bike up. You may have to really put your "butt" into it, but it can be done. Don't worry about losing the bike. It's stable. Just worry about getting the stand lifted.
Once I have the bike on the stand, I place plastic and some shop rags underneath it to catch some of the "ick" that will come off the chain. Again, this is not a requirement, I just happen to live in a brand new house and don't want to trash the concrete with grease and grime. Finally, I make sure the bike is in NEUTRAL so the wheel will spin freely.

You are now ready for the first step in cleaning.