Michael Davis
Keeping a motorcycle chain clean is an essential part of motorcycle maintenance. The chain is often the dirtiest part of the bike, and a dirty or poorly maintained chain can compromise the vehicle's performance and increase the risk of accidents. Cleaning and lubricating the chain can extend the life and performance of the chain and sprockets. The process is simple and should only take around 15 minutes. It involves parking the motorcycle on a flat surface, applying a cleaner, using a brush to scrub the chain, rinsing, and then lubricating the chain. There are different types of brushes available for cleaning motorcycle chains, including U-shaped brushes and 360-degree brushes, and different types of cleaning products, such as kerosene, white spirit, and chain-specific degreasers.
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What You'll Learn
Why mushroom lubrication is important
Unless you have a motorcycle with a shaft- or belt-drive, chain lubrication is an essential part of motorcycle maintenance. The O-rings that seal the factory grease inside the chain need to be kept lubricated, so they don't harden or crack. Perfect chain alignment is practically impossible, so if the plates are slightly out of line, the O-rings could allow some moisture in, which will start to affect the grease—a decent lube can help seal that.
Motorcycle chains that are not lubricated will corrode, leaving pitting or rust, which is unsightly and creates extra friction as you ride. The heat created by this friction will cause your chain to stretch prematurely and need replacing sooner, costing you money—not to mention the extra wear you’ll be putting on your sprockets.
There are two types of motorcycle chain: open-chain and O-Ring or X-Ring chains. Open-chains are typically used on lower-capacity bikes or off-roaders and need cleaning and lubricating frequently. O-Ring or X-Ring chains use sealed rollers to keep the lubricant in place but still require lubrication where the rollers act on the sprockets and protection from corrosion.
It is important to keep the chain lubricated regularly and not wait for an actual problem. Lubricants should be applied in moderation and in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations. Many modern lubricants are formulated to reduce dirt adhesion and make cleaning easier.
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Choosing the right lubricant
When selecting a chain lubricant, it's crucial to consider the riding conditions. Wet lubes, for instance, are suitable for all weather conditions, especially during autumn and winter, as they are water-resistant and won't wash off easily. They also resist salt corrosion during winter rides and effectively reduce drivetrain noise. However, wet lubes tend to attract dirt due to their sticky nature, which, if not addressed, can lead to a buildup that accelerates component wear. On the other hand, dry lubes are ideal for those who ride regularly in the rain, as they keep the chain clean, rust-free, and quiet. Wax-based dry lubes, such as Smoove Lube, require a clean chain before application but offer quiet, efficient, and long-lasting lubrication without attracting much dirt.
If you're seeking an all-conditions lube, Fenwicks All Conditions lube performs well in various weather conditions, although it may attract more dirt and wash out quicker than a wet lube. For winter use or situations where reapplication is challenging, Muc-Off's Wet Lube is an excellent biodegradable option that prevents noise and rust for extended periods. However, it tends to get quite dirty. When cost is a consideration, it's worth noting that the price per litre of different motorcycle chain lubes varies, with some options, like Pro-GreenMX, being relatively expensive.
In addition to the type of lubricant, the application process is also important. Before applying a wax-based lube like Maxima Chain Wax, ensure your chain is thoroughly cleaned with a degreaser and dried. Then apply the wax and allow it to harden. For a quick and easy solution, an all-purpose product like WD-40 can be sprayed on your chain without the need for frequent cleaning and relubrication. However, a normal lube or gear oil will stay on your chain longer and provide better protection.
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Preparing the motorcycle chain for lubrication
Preparing your motorcycle chain for lubrication is a crucial step in ensuring a smooth and safe ride. Here are the steps you should take to prepare your motorcycle chain for lubrication:
Clean the Chain
Use a motorcycle chain cleaner to remove any old lube, dust, or grime buildup. You can purchase a chain cleaner, or use an old toothbrush to scrub away any dirt and grime. Make sure to get into all the small spaces and crevices of the chain.
Dry the Chain
After cleaning, use a clean rag or towel to wipe away any remaining dirt or cleaner residue. Allow the chain to dry completely before moving on to the next step. This step is important because applying lube to a dirty or wet chain will not be effective.
Prepare the Workspace
Before lubricating, ensure your workspace is well-ventilated to manage any fumes from the cleaner and lubricant. Put on a dust mask, especially if you are using spray solvents or oil, and disposable gloves to protect your hands from any harsh chemicals. You may also want to put down a drop cloth or old rags to catch any drips or overspray and to keep your workspace clean.
Prepare the Chain for Lubrication
With your workspace ready, it's time to prepare the chain. If you haven't already, remove any bolts on the rear fender and chain guard to make the process more comfortable. You can use a wrench to remove these bolts. While not necessary, having a swingarm lift or stand can make it easier to access the chain. Put your bike on the stand so the rear wheel can spin freely, making it easier to apply the lubricant.
Now that your motorcycle chain is clean and your workspace is prepared, you are ready to begin the lubrication process.
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Applying the lubricant
To lubricate your motorcycle chain, start by cleaning it. You can use diesel or petrol to clean the chain, but be aware that petrol does not have lubricating properties. Kerosene is also a good option, as it is a lighter oil that will drain off more slowly than diesel or petrol. You can also use WD-40, which is a good cleaner and protectant but should not be used as a lubricant. Soak a rag in your chosen cleaner and wipe down the chain, or remove the chain and scrub it with a wire or brass brush.
Once the chain is clean, it's time to apply the lubricant. Good motorcycle chain lubes are offered in a spray can and are thixotropic, meaning they become thin and flow easily when agitated and gradually become thick when left unagitated. This allows the lubricant to penetrate the innards of the chain when sprayed on and then stay in place without dripping away.
When applying the lubricant, be sure to follow the instructions on the product. Some products may require you to spray the lubricant directly onto the chain, while others may need to be applied with a rag or brush. It is important not to over-lubricate the chain, as this can lead to dripping.
If you are using a spray lubricant, hold the can a few inches away from the chain and spray the lubricant onto the chain in a back-and-forth motion. Be sure to get lubricant into all the nooks and crannies of the chain. You may need to turn the rear wheel of the motorcycle to get to all parts of the chain.
After applying the lubricant, allow it to dry completely before riding the motorcycle. This will ensure that the lubricant has had time to work its way into the chain and will not be flung off when the chain starts moving.
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Post-lubrication maintenance
Cleaning and Lubrication Frequency
Regular cleaning and lubrication are essential. The standard recommendation is to clean and lubricate your motorcycle chain every 500-700 kilometres or every 300-400 kilometres in dusty conditions. However, the frequency may vary depending on the conditions you ride in. If you ride in wet or dirty conditions, it's advisable to clean and lubricate your chain more frequently, such as after every ride in wet weather. Additionally, always clean and lubricate your chain before storing your motorcycle for winter.
Inspection and Adjustment
Regularly inspect your chain for any signs of wear and tear. Check the master link, which joins the two ends of the chain, to ensure it is secure. Also, pay attention to the sprocket teeth; when they become sharp, it may be an indication of heavy wear. As a general rule, chains and sprockets should be replaced simultaneously. Additionally, adjust the chain tension according to the recommendations in your motorcycle user's manual.
Cleaning and Lubrication Products
When cleaning your motorcycle chain, use a motorcycle-specific chain cleaner designed for O-ring chains, which are standard on modern motorcycles. Avoid household cleaners and corrosive or abrasive fluids, as they can damage the chain. Kerosene is an effective and inexpensive option for dissolving existing lubricant and dirt. After cleaning, ensure the chain is completely dry before applying lubrication. You can use a dry cloth to wipe away any excess cleaner.
Lubrication Application
Before applying lubrication, ensure your motorcycle chain is warm. A short ride will warm up the chain, allowing the metal to expand slightly. This enables the lubricant to penetrate tiny crevices and gaps, resulting in a thorough and long-lasting coating. When applying the lubricant, aim for a thin, even coat on all sides of the chain and sprocket. Avoid over-lubrication, as it can attract dirt.
Post-Lubrication Inspection
After lubricating your chain, allow the lubricant to set for a few minutes before riding. This ensures that the lubricant has adequately penetrated the chain, providing proper lubrication. Regularly maintaining your motorcycle chain through cleaning, lubricating, and inspecting will ensure optimal performance, extend the life of your chain, and enhance your overall riding experience.
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Frequently asked questions
You will need a chain breaker/riveter tool. You will also need a hammer and a steep-angled punch.
Position the pin correctly with a hammer. Test the chain to see if the link has become stiff. Then, use the rivet punch to mushroom the head of the pin. Test the chain again.
The link should bend freely when manipulated by hand, just like the other links in the chain. If it drags, it is too tight. If it's not pressed down enough, the o-rings won't seal. Refer to the manufacturer's specifications for their specific flare requirements.
If you apply too much pressure with the riveting tool, you can ruin the link.
One alternative is to use a hammer and a steep-angled punch. This method requires two people and a careful touch. The second person holds a heavy hammer or dolly behind the head of the master link pin. Centre the punch in the dimple at the end of the pin and carefully hammer the punch into the pin to mushroom it.
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