I'm rehabbing an old bicycle, one with no gears. I know I have to replace both tires/tubes.

[raccoon]

Do I need to oil the chain? If so, with what?

[Lethe]

1. would be a good idea

they make special bike chain oil for that purpose. i get mine at a bike shop...not sure where else they sell it.

wipe the chain clean, oil it, then wipe the excess off.

[HopeHoops]

2. 3-in-1 works quite well. Do NOT use WD-40 - that does not provide lasting protection!

[surrealAmerican]

3. You generally grease the chain.

You need something thick enough to stay on it.

[SacredCow]

4. Use WD-40 or something like that first....

Which will penetrate into the links and break up any old, hardened oil or grease.

If you don't plan to ever ride in the rain, you can use the WD-40 by itself- no, it doesn't leave a lot of lubrication behind, but if you re-apply regularly it's sufficient AND won't turn into sludge with all of the dirt and grime it holds.

This is the best stuff, though:
http://www.whitelightningco.com/products/index.htm

[bikebloke]

5. Pedalling will be easier with it lubed.

Before I started riding 24/7, I used 3-in-1 oil. Now, I use some teflon oil. When I was on long treks, I used some Phil Wood thick oil.

Oil the chain, then turn the crank several times so the oil can penetrate. Then wipe the excess oil off. Otherwise, dirt will collect and become an abrasive, wearing chain, chain rings and derailleurs.

For some good instructional (or refreshional - yeah I made that up) videos, go to: http://bicycletutor.com
(though at the site seems down at the moment)