How to Maintain Your Motorcycle Chain for Longevity

How to Maintain Your Motorcycle Chain for Longevity

One aspect often overlooked by riders is the maintenance of their motorcycle chain. The chain is crucial for powering the motorcycle, but proper maintenance will not necessarily make the bike go faster.

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However, neglecting chain maintenance can result in your motorcycle slowing down without you realizing it.

Proper Motorcycle Chain Maintenance

It's wise to take some time to follow proper motorcycle chain maintenance to avoid issues later on.

1. Check Chain Tension

   - Spend a few minutes checking the tension of your motorcycle chain. The chain should neither be too tight nor too loose.

   - A chain that is too tight can wear out or break quickly, while a chain that is too loose can frequently come off its intended position.

   How to Check Chain Tension:

   1. Place your finger on the chain.

   2. Try to lift your finger in the middle of the chain.

   3. Observe the distance between the chain.

   4. Check the appropriate distance according to your motorcycle’s maintenance manual.

   5. You can adjust the chain yourself or take it to a nearby workshop for further inspection.

2. Always Clean the Chain

   - Chains should be cleaned regularly to remove dust and dirt.

   - You can clean the chain using:

     1. Water + soap (if the chain isn’t too dirty)

     2. Kerosene

     3. Chain cleaner

   - Some use WD40 for cleaning the chain, but this is controversial as it may not be ideal for chain conditions.

3. Brush and Clean the Chain

   - It is advised to clean the chain using a chain cleaner or a toothbrush.

   - Soap and kerosene alone may not fully clean the chain’s crevices. Dust and dirt can remain between the chain links.

4. Lubricate the Chain When Warm

   - Use chain lubricant properly. Ideally, lubricate the chain when it’s still warm.

   - This helps the lubricant spread more evenly over the entire surface.

   - After applying lubricant, it’s recommended to ride the motorcycle to ensure the lubricant is evenly distributed.

5. Wash the Chain and Sprockets After Rain

   - Immediately wash the chain if it gets wet from rain or floods, using water and soap.

   - Dirt from the water can cause grime to stick to the chain and sprockets, leading to corrosion and rust.

6. Check the Chain Condition Every 500km

   - For avid riders, check the chain condition every 500km or weekly.

   - If you are not a frequent rider, a monthly check should suffice.

Types of Motorcycle Chains on the Market

Motorcycle chains come in different types:

-O-ring Chain: Maintains tension and performance longer. O-rings help retain grease and resist dust and sand. These chains can last up to 30,000km before needing replacement.

  

- X-ring Chain: Has a smaller contact surface between the chain and the ring, reducing friction and power loss. X-ring chains are generally more expensive, costing two to three times more than O-ring chains.

  

- Standard Chain-

: More affordable compared to other types.

When to Replace the Motorcycle Chain and Sprockets

- Chains and sprockets should be replaced approximately every 25,000km, depending on riding conditions.

- Frequent exposure to dust, dirt, and moisture may necessitate earlier replacement.

Why Does the Chain Make Noise?

- Noise typically comes from the sprockets. Use a special lubricant to reduce the noise.

- Avoid using used engine oil as it can cause damage and make the chain and sprockets wear out faster.

Good Motorcycle Chain Cleaners

- There isn’t one "best" chain lubricant. The durability of the chain depends on riding habits, maintenance practices, and the budget for upkeep.

- Ensure the lubricant has anti-splash properties to keep the rim from collecting dust and dirt for longer-lasting performance.

Conclusion

To ensure your motorcycle chain remains in good condition, regularly check it and perform maintenance as needed. Reducing friction, managing engine temperature, optimizing oil performance, protecting engine internals, and improving overall engine efficiency are key aspects of chain care.

We hope this article helps you with motorcycle chain maintenance for your bike.

Credits: Pandulaju, Gempak, Maskulin