Motorcycle Chain Maintenance

How to Clean a Motorcycle Chain

Max. D Gray
By Max. D Gray. Updated: January 16, 2017
How to Clean a Motorcycle Chain
Image: motos.about.com

Cleaning your motorbike chain is very important because this component of your vehicle must always be lubricated. However excess grease can accumulate in places which can result in performance issues and could even compromise your safety. This crucial component is the link between the engine and the wheel, so it is essential to have proper functioning to maintain optimum control of your bike. At OneHowTo we explain in detail how to clean the motorbike chain.

You'll need:
  • degreaser
  • lubricant
  • Gloves
  • small brush
  • cardboard
  • newspapers
  • rags
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Steps to follow:
1

It is best to clean the bike chain at least every 7,000 kilometres, but you should do it more often if you use your vehicle very intensely. Greasing the chain, however, must be done more frequently, every 500 kilometres. You should also bear in mind that your chain will need replacing approximately every 20,000-30,000 km, depending on usage and maintenance.

2

When cleaning it, it is quite possible that you will spill grease, so put the bike on a thick piece of cardboard or a pile of newspapers to absorb the grease. To avoid staining your skin, use gloves and wear old clothes that you do not mind getting dirty.

3

The first thing to do to clean the bike chain is to eliminate the accumulation of grease on the chain. There are several ways to do this but the simplest is to buy a degreaser product in a specialty store. It's worth it for the results you get.

4

So that the product reaches all the corners, apply it from the rear wheel, having it rotate while you apply it. Also, when you see that there is an excessive accumulation of grease on part of it, use a small brush to remove it, because the cleaner alone may not be enough to remove it.

Alternatively, clean the chain with oil and a brush. In this case, use a cloth to protect the rear wheel and prevent staining.

How to Clean a Motorcycle Chain - Step 4
5

Once the chain is clean, just re-grease it by applying the lubricant also from the rear wheel, while it rotates. Immediately scrub up any grease that gets on the wheel.

6

Do this operation approximately every 7,000 kilometres, this will keep your bike chain clean and well-oiled to perform its function properly. Proper maintenance of your chain will also save you money in the long run, as you can extend its life significantly so it doen't need to be replaced as often.

If you want more tips and info about maintaining your motorcycle to ensure maximum performance and safety then check out our Top 10 Tips to Keep Your Motorcycle Healthy.

If you want to read similar articles to How to Clean a Motorcycle Chain, we recommend you visit our Motorbike Maintance and Repair category.

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How to Clean a Motorcycle Chain