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A Beginner's Guide to Motorcycle Chain Maintenance

Aug. 12 2021 Maintenance By Sky Powersports Lakeland

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The motorcycle's chain plays a key role in getting power from the engine to the tires. If the chain is not properly maintained, it can cause a host of issues and face wear and tear faster. While there are some maintenance tasks best left to professionals, there are some simple motorcycle chain maintenance projects that owners can tackle.

Keep reading for tips on motorcycle chain maintenance. For more maintenance tips or to shop motorcycles for sale, visit Sky Powersports Lakeland. Our dealership is located in Lakeland, Florida, and we also serve those in Tampa and Orlando.

Check the Motorcycle Chain

It's important to inspect the chain on a regular basis. Usually, this is twice a month or every 500-700 miles.

First, see if the motorcycle chain is too tight or too loose. The motorcycle's owner's manual will provide information on this. You can also gently tug the chain up and down about an inch and then adjust as needed. If the tension seems off, be sure to roll the motorcycle forward and check the full chain. Make sure it's not a problematic individual link rather than the tension being off.

Second, check the sprockets. Make sure the teeth run smoothly with the chain. This helps prevent unnecessary wear and damage. If the teeth are worn down or suffering from odd wear, it may be a sign of an issue with the connection or the need for parts replacements.

Clean the Motorcycle Chain

Regular cleaning helps improve the performance and lifespan of the motorcycle chain.

For this step, you will need:

  • A chain cleaner.
  • A brush (either one designed for motorcycle chain cleaning or a toothbrush).
  • A towel.

Before you buy products, make sure they match your given motorcycle and its materials. The wrong products can fail to deliver a proper clean or can cause damage.

Start by soaking the chain in the cleaning product. Scrub the chain and remove all grime and dirt. Use the towel to wipe the chain dry.

Lubricate the Motorcycle Chain

This is a key step of motorcycle chain maintenance. After the chain is cleaned and dried, spray lubricant onto it while you rotate the tire. This gets the lubricant dispersed throughout the entire chain, rather than just a section of it. Make sure you have covered the four sides of the motorcycle chain with the lubricant. If there is any excess lubricant, you can clean it away.

Be sure to consult the instructions for the given lubricant. Some products, for example, need a few minutes to fully set. While you are waiting, you can always use the time to adjust the tension. Once the lubricant has set, you are done!

Want more motorcycle chain maintenance tips? Looking to shop motorcycles for sale? The experts at Sky Powersports Lakeland are here to help! Reach out or stop by our dealership in Lakeland, Florida. We also proudly serve those in Tampa and Orlando, Florida.