Last Update: 4 September 2023
Maintaining the cleanliness and lubrication of your motorcycle chain is absolutely essential to ensure the longevity of your motorcycle’s drive chain and sprockets. Overlooking this crucial maintenance routine can undermine the efficient power transfer from your engine to the rear wheel, potentially diminishing the thrilling performance you hold dear. While the process of caring for your motorcycle chain might seem straightforward, my guide below on “How To Clean And Lubricate Your Motorcycle Chain” will ensure you achieve optimal performance without any hassle.
Cleaning and Lubricating Your Motorcycle Chain
Maintaining your motorcycle chain is essential for a smooth and safe ride. Regular cleaning and lubrication not only extend the chain’s life but also enhance your bike’s performance. If you clean your motorcycle chain regularly you will get to know when it needs to be tightened or if it is too tight (chains don’t tighten themselves, but they can be improperly adjusted). How long your chain and sprockets will last depends mostly on the size and configuration of your motor, and partly on the quality of the chain, but you can greatly extend the lifespan of any chain and sprocket with regular cleaning and lubrication.
TIP: Proper chain free-play is vital. You’ll sense changes in tension during maintenance as the chain and sprockets wear over time.
Here’s how to keep your motorcycle chain in top shape.
What You Need: Tools And Materials
- Your owner’s manual for reference. Refer to the chain maintenance section for motorcycle-specific instructions based on your make and model.
- Chain cleaning brushes.
- Chain cleaner/degreaser. If your chain is really dirty you may need a suitable solvent, but ensure it’s compatible with O-RING chains, which are standard on modern street bikes.
- Clean, lint-free rags.
- Motorcycle chain lubricant.
- Stand or paddock stand (optional).
Step 1: Preparation
- Park your motorcycle on a level surface.
- Put the bike in neutral or use a paddock stand for easier access to the chain.
- Ensure the engine is off and the motorcycle is cool to the touch.
Step 2: Cleaning
- Spray a chain cleaner or degreaser onto the chain.
- Use a chain cleaning brush to scrub the chain thoroughly. Scrubbing the chain with an old nail-brush or an old paint brush will help push dirt out from between the plates of the chain, where you really want to clean.
- Clean the accessible portions of chain and rear sprocket, then move the bike forward (if not mounted on a stand) a few inches to expose a new section of chain to clean.
- Rotate the wheel slowly to cover the entire chain. Be careful not to pinch your fingers or put oily hands on your tire. If you don’t have a paddock stand, walk your bike backwards and forwards a few inches at a time until you’ve been able to reach the entire length of the chain.
- Wipe off excess cleaner with a clean rag. Don’t stop cleaning until you see clean bare metal on all surfaces on the chain – internal dirt is the problem, but you can’t get at that until you’ve removed all the external dirt and grime.
Step 3: Inspection:
- Examine the chain for signs of wear, loose links, or tight spots. Replace if necessary.
Step 4: Lubrication:
It’s essential to ensure that your motorcycle chain is *warm before applying lubrication. When the chain is warm, the metal expands slightly, allowing the lubricant to penetrate the tiny crevices and gaps within the chain more effectively. This ensures a thorough and long-lasting coating of lubrication, contributing to smoother operation and increased chain lifespan.
*Please be aware that while this applies to the majority of chain lubricants and wax products, there may be a few exceptions. It is advisable to carefully review the product details prior to use to ensure compatibility.
So, before you begin the lubrication process, take a short ride to warm up the chain for optimal results, then follow these steps:
- Shake the chain lubricant can well.
- Apply the lubricant evenly to the chain while rotating the wheel.
- Avoid over-lubrication; a thin, even coat is sufficient.
- Wipe off any excess lubricant to prevent flinging.
Precautions: What should be applied to your chain should never come into contact with your tires. Exercise utmost caution to prevent any chain lubricant, oil, or residues from reaching your tires, hands, or any other surfaces. In the event of accidental contact, promptly wash your tires with soap and water to ensure safety.
Step 5: Final Checks
- Spin the wheel to distribute the lubricant evenly.
- Perform a brief check of your rear tire to ensure it’s free from any greasy residue.
- Check the chain’s tension and adjust if needed.
- Recheck for any excess lubricant.
Motorcycle Chain Maintenance Tips:
- Clean and lubricate your chain every 500-700 kilometres; after every ride in wet conditions; or as needed.
- Use a motorcycle-specific chain cleaner and lubricant.
- Avoid using excess cleaner or lubricant, as it can attract dirt.
- Regularly check and adjust chain tension according to your motorcycle user’s manual/handbook.
Conclusion:
Regularly cleaning and lubricating your motorcycle chain is a simple yet crucial aspect of motorcycle maintenance. By following these concise steps, you can ensure a longer chain life, smoother rides, and a safer journey on the road!
!!! Please use caution, it is very important your motorcycle is not running and you keep your hands/fingers away from the chain when the wheel is moving.
There are also kits you can purchase designed by motorcyclists which aim to make this process a little easier! Check out the TIROX CHAIN CLEANER KITS and products just for your chain!