Maintaining the chain drive of your motorcycle is of great importance for optimal performance. But the question arises: How often should you lube your motorcycle chain? Neglecting proper chain lubrication can result in various issues such as:
- Power transmission problems
- Jerky wheel movements
- Accelerated sprocket wear and more
Regular inspection and lubrication are key to assuring the longevity and efficiency of your motorcycle chain.
Something to keep in mind: For those who like doing their own maintenance, check out Haynes Manuals and our impressive line of motorcycle manuals. In the meantime, here’s some advice regarding your motorcycle chain.
When to Clean and Lubricate the Chain
To keep your motorcycle chain in top condition, periodically, it should be:
- Checked
- Adjusted
- Lubricated
It is recommended to clean and lubricate the chain drive after every 500 miles (800 kilometers) of distance traveled. What’s more, you should inspect the chain after washing your motorcycle, riding in the rain, or traversing wet areas. Checking for slack, alignment, and overall condition is also suggested before adjusting the chain and applying the appropriate manufacturer-recommended lubricant.
The Importance of Chain Lubrication
The chain drive in a motorcycle serves as the means to transfer power from the engine to the rear wheel. For smooth and efficient movement, you need to lubricate the chain adequately. A lack of lubrication can lead to significant power loss during transmission. That could result in reduced mileage and fuel efficiency. Proper chain lubrication also minimizes wear and tear, preventing damage to the chain sprockets. By inspecting and lubricating the motorcycle chain regularly, you can maintain optimal power transmission and prevent potential issues.
Consequences of Neglecting Chain Lubrication
Failing to regularly check the slack, adjust, and lubricate the motorcycle chain drive can have harmful effects on the motorcycle's performance. Inadequate chain lubrication results in uneven power transmission from the engine to the rear wheel. This can lead to decreased mileage and fuel efficiency. Also, jerky wheel movements occur due to improper power delivery, affecting the overall riding experience. Insufficient lubrication causes excessive wear and tear. That will generate excessive heat which can damage the chain sprockets. It is therefore critical to prioritize regular chain lubrication to avoid these problems.
How to Clean and Lubricate the Motorcycle Chain
Properly cleaning and lubricating your motorcycle chain is a simple yet important maintenance task. Here is a step-by-step guide:
- Place your motorcycle in a workable position. Park the motorcycle on a flat surface with the weight properly distributed. Place the transmission in neutral.
- The chain slack should be checked next and, if necessary, adjusted. Make sure the chain slack falls within the recommended range of 25 mm to 35 mm. Adjust the chain tension if it is too loose or too tight. Loosen the axle nut and locknut on each side of the swingarm. Then, the chain slack adjusting bolt needs to be turned in order to achieve the desired slack. Push the rear wheel forward to verify the adjustment.
- While rotating the wheel, clean the chain and sprockets using a dry cloth and a high flash-point solvent. A soft brush can be used for stubborn dirt. Avoid using gasoline or low flash-point solvents. They can pose fire hazards. Steam cleaners and high-pressure washers should be avoided to prevent damage to the chain's O-rings.
- After cleaning, thoroughly wipe the chain with a clean, dry cloth to remove any remaining solvent or dirt.
- Using the recommended lubricant, spray it generously on the sprockets, O-rings, and along the entire length of the chain. Avoid getting lubricant on the tires or brakes. To prevent it from spraying onto your clothes and the motorcycle, also avoid applying excess chain lubricant.
Could You Use a Few Tips Regarding Motorcycle Maintenance? Haynes Manuals Can Help!
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