How to Clean and Lube a Motorcycle Chain Yourself

Proper, regular maintenance keeps your motorcycle running longer and better. Save yourself the expense of unnecessary repairs – not to mention the time your bike stays off the road – by learning how to perform some simple yet essential maintenance tasks yourself. A good place to begin is figuring out how to clean your chain and apply motorcycle chain lube. Whether you purchase a brand-new model or buy a used motorcycle, giving it the right care improves both longevity and performance.

How Often Do You Need to do This?

Maintenance needs can differ, so consult our manual to learn about a proper schedule for your bike. Your dealer can also provide helpful information.

Additionally, it is a good idea to clean and lube after riding in wet weather. Some riders like to use an automated motorcycle chain oiler, which can oil your chain at the press of a button or based on a set of sophisticated sensors. If you have a plain chain, you may still need to lube by hand.

Setting up Your Motorcycle

Ideally, the cleaning and lubing process will go faster if you can position your bike in a way that lets the rear wheel spin all the way so you can clean the entire chain without having to move your bike around. Putting your bike in a center or paddock stand can make the task easier but is not absolutely necessary. You can take off the chain to work on it, or else do your cleaning section by section.

Getting Started

As you get ready to clean, take this opportunity to give your chains and sprockets a good check-up. If you need to replace your chains, you should also get new sprockets at the same time. If you notice anything else that concerns you, consult a reputable repair service provider.

The best way to clean your chain depends on what kind of chain you have. Motorcycles come with plain or sealed chains. A plain chain is made completely from metal links. Sealed chains have a rubber seal between the links. The seal is there to keep the grease in and dirt out. When you clean a sealed chain, you will need to take care to avoid damaging the rubber seal.

Cleaning

You will need the following tools for effective cleaning:

Cleaning spray: you can use a specialized chain cleaner or kerosene
Motorcycle chain brush
Dry cloth

Apply your cleaning spray all over the chain, making sure to get it in everywhere. Do not stint on cleaner, as you want your spray to soak through all the grime in your chain. Once you have coated all parts of your chain with your spray, give the chain a good scrubbing with the brush. Again, be thorough and make sure to go over every inch. When you finish, spray a generous amount of cleaner all over the chain once again. Finally, use a clean, dry cloth to get all of cleaner off, as well as any grime that might be left over. The lube will not adhere properly if the chain is not completely dry.

Applying the Lube

Specialized motorcycle chain lubricant general works better than all-purpose oils. Apply the lube in an even layer all around your chain. If you have a plain chain, you can just cover it with the lube, making sure you coat it all around, then mop up any excess amounts. Because sealed chains already have grease inside the links, you only need to apply lube to the outside surface in order to keep it from rusting.

The Bike Professionals at Vey's Powersports Are There to Help

Vey's Powersports prides itself on its stellar support for motorcycle enthusiasts. Whether you are looking for the latest Honda bikes for sale, accessories or top-of-the-line service, Vey's can help. Check out Vey's online to learn more about purchasing and maintaining the motorcycle of your choice.