how to clean motorcycle chain

Before you start scrubbing your chain, take a few minutes to get up close and personal with your chain and the sprockets. Leave the bike chain to dry. Apply just enough of the MPPL lubricant to coat the chain, rotating the rear tire in order to access every link in the chain. I usually use an old rag and soak it with kerosene and wipe it over the chain until the chain is clean. It’s really easy to clean your motorcycle chain at home, all you need are a few tools. Spin the chain around one complete revolution directing the cleaning spray into the centre of the links. Alternatively, clean the chain with oil and a brush. Among all the parts of a motorcycle, the chain requires maximum cleaning. You don’t even need a motorcycle stand making it easy to do at home. Step 3: Rotate the rear wheel and - at the same time - spray the cleaner onto the chain. Find out all the tips and tricks you need to clean and lube your motorcycle chain today. Take the motorcycle … If you regularly apply oil to chain then cleaning it is not very tough. Drying the chain is one of the most important steps to avoid corrosion. This can easily be accomplished by inserting the stand beneath the wheel. Some chains are plain and naked, while others have incorporated seals such as O-rings or X-rings that help keep lubricant within the chain. Take a clean, fresh cloth and clamp it around the chain. So if you have a question or are stuck, click here and talk to a mechanic near you. You can leave the chain for about an hour to dry, but if you are in a hurry to use the bike, you can ride it for a few minutes. Once the chain is clean, just re-grease it by applying the lubricant also from the rear wheel, while it rotates. Ideally, rotate the wheel so the chain is running AWAY from the rear sprocket. Over the years, The Drive’s editors have cleaned and lubed our way through dozens of motorcycle chains and other parts. Wipe away all the excess lubricant after. 6 Do this operation approximately every 7,000 kilometres, this will keep your bike chain clean and well-oiled to perform its function properly. Maintenance of a motorcycle begins with cleaning and lubricating the chain consistently. This is the final drive which finally delivers the engine drive to the rear wheel. Spray or wipe your chain with kerosene. However excess grease can accumulate in places which can result in performance issues and could even compromise your safety. Respray any rusty spots with WD-40 and allow it to soak in for 5 minutes. Even though you want to get the chain looking nice, don't neglect the … Therefore you can scrap the crud from counter-shaft sprocket-pocket. It pairs with two sprockets, one at the transmission near your left foot and one in the rear wheel’s hub, which propels the motorcycle. DuPont Teflon Chain-Saver Dry Self-Cleaning Lubricant, Got a question? Lubricate your chain with a good quality motorcycle chain lubricant spray, by spraying forward and down onto the top of the lower run of the chain, walking your bike until you have sprayed the full length of the chain. To help dry out the nooks and crannies of the chain faster, you can use some WD-40 (that’s what it’s made to do; the WD stands for “water displacement.”) In this article, we aim to provide a simple guide to teach you how to clean a motorcycle chain. Immediately scrub up any grease that gets on the wheel. Best Bike Chain Cleaners: Break Down Dirt and Grease, Remove old grease and other contaminants with these bike chain cleaners, Best Bike Chain Degreasers: Maintain Your Bike’s Efficiency, Use a good-quality bike chain degreaser to extend the life of your chain, Best Motorcycle Chain Lubes: Keep Your Motorcycle Chain in Mint Condition, Ensure that your chain operates to its maximum longevity with our top picks for the best motorcycle chain lube, Motorcycle grunge brush or regular soft-bristled brush, Old, but clean, towel, rag, shirt, or sock. Motorcycle chains get dirty. Depending on the type of motorcycle, a chain will typically cost between $50-200. Wear gloves if you want to keep your hands clean from the chemicals. Greasing the chain, however, must be done more frequently, every 500 kilometres. Manufactured a ton less complicated if your bicycle comes with a center stand or can be used with a paddock stand, both equal selections allowing the motorcycles trunk has been lifted into the atmosphere so summoned publicly. If the chain is wet, the lube may not stick well. Gently wipe off excess lubricant from the chain and clean the surrounding area of chain lube. Get scrubbing: Then grab a motorcycle chain cleaning brush and work the chain one section at a time. On select motorcycles, a chain is used as the final drive method. The Simple Solutions Grunge Brush is an awesome brush made just for cleaning motorcycle chains! It bears repeating that all motorcycle work should be conducted with the bike is off and the engine is completely cooled down. Chains need more maintenance than most, so here's a great video on chain cleaners. With the bike supported on a rear bike stand, hold a cleaning/shop towel under a section of the chain and spray the chain. Steps To Clean A Motorcycle Chain Step 1. Repeat steps 2-4 until you feel comfortable with the level of cleanliness. Never, ever, ever use the throttle as a way to spin the wheel while cleaning. The penultimate step in cleaning and lubing the motorcycle chain requires you to air dry it. Check your local laws to make sure you’re not violating any codes when using the street because we aren’t getting your ride out of hock. The abrasive nature of road grit can wear down the chain and sprocket, while a lack of lubrication can dry out the seals or create unnecessary friction that could damage the chain and sprocket. This can easily be accomplished by inserting the stand beneath the wheel. No single remnant of grime or cleaner should be left on the chain. Inspection. Scrub the chain using a chain scrubber or toothbrush. If you lubricate a motorcycle chain, clean it first. When speaking about motorcycle equipment, it is important to recognize and see if your chain falls under one of three categories. Now remove the sprocket cover. Fixing and lubing and a clean motorcycle chain is a secure method if you are capable of doing it. Ready your bike . Wipe the chain off and inspect for any remaining rust. The first and foremost step in learning how to clean a motorcycle chain is to identify the type of chain equipped on your motorcycle. If you clean a motorcycle chain, lubricate afterward. In this case, use a cloth to protect the rear wheel and prevent staining. Spray your Toothbrush with WD-40 and scrub any difficult spots until they are clean. One last step, just give your rear tire a quick inspection to make sure it’s not greasy anywhere and you’re done. Wipe away the dirt and grease with a clean cloth and let the chain dry. There are several ways to do this but the simplest is to buy a degreaser product in a specialty store. Experts often say that a clean chain is a long-lasting chain. 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. Take your time to fully dry the chain and remove all of the chain cleaner prior to lubricating. Really dirty. If the chain looks nasty or too dry, it’s best to clean it and lubricate 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. A motorcycle’s final drive, or the part that makes the bike move, can be a shaft, a belt, or most commonly, a riveted master link chain. As a general rule of thumb, it’s best to clean and lubricate a motorcycle chain with O-rings at least every 600 miles, while plain chains require more frequent attention. To determine what you need, read your motorcycle manual for the suggested type of lubricant and how to apply it. - All Possible Reasons. Cleaning your motorbike chain is very important because this component of your vehicle must always be lubricated. Use a brush to apply a degreaser to the chains to make your motorcycle chain cleaner, and a lubricant, too. The Drive and its partners may earn a commission if you purchase a product through one of our links. **There are endless varieties of chain lubricants out there, and everybody has their own personal favorites. The lube works best on a dry surface. 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. Always start with your motorcycle up on a stand with the rear wheel elevated. Before starting on the body, take care of any other nooks and crannies around the engine area that need special attention. Posted by: Rider Assist Team. A kit, which includes a chain and sprockets, will likely cost roughly $150-300. The kind of acceleration and deceleration forces that the chain handles are immense. If you have regular oil changes by a mechanic, chances are they also clean the chain. *Working on your car can be messy and dangerous, especially when you’re working with flammable materials such as kerosene. The best part about using kerosene is that it will clean your chain amazingly quick, saving you lots of time. Similar to the cleaning process, work in small sections to ensure each part of the chain is dry. Cleaning it with a rag now and then is a good idea, but that’s not enough on the long run. Using clean microfiber cloths, fully dry the chain once it meets your standard of cleanliness. You should also bear in mind that your chain will need replacing approximately every 20,000-30,000 km, depending on usage and maintenance. Since the chain is already clean, you now need to leave it to dry before oiling it up. For sealed chains apply a small amount of chain lubricant. You can use a scrap piece of cardboard to protect the ground and your bike from overspray. Regardless of what type of chain is on your motorcycle, to keep your drivetrain running smoothly, you should keep the chain clean. What does White Smoke from the Car Exhaust Mean? After a moment of soaking, use your brush to scrub the chain and break up grime. Scrub until the chain is clean. Washing a motorcycle is a simple, low-risk task, but cleaning products could be toxic. Turn as always at the rear wheel to rinse the whole chain several times. While rotating the wheel and chain, spray the chain with kerosene or wheel cleaner. Once the chain is clean, just re-grease it by applying the lubricant also from the rear wheel, while it rotates. If you are not doing that, it is harder to remove grease from the chain set. How often do you clean your motorcycle chain? To clean a motorcycle chain with a center stand, follow these steps: Inspect the chain and sprocket and check for any gunk; check if it is running smoothly Make sure you put pressure on the sides and see if it does not slop out on each side Wipe the dirt and cleaner away with a towel or rag. Do the same to … So that the product reaches all the corners, apply it from the rear wheel, having it rotate while you apply it. (You still won't need a blowtorch for this job. Our Biodegradable Motorcycle Chain Cleaner has been specifically formulated to quickly and safely remove dirt, lube and heavy chain grime. Aim close to where the lower run of the chain and the rear sprocket meet. If you don’t, you should learn how to do it yourself. A chain left dry and unclean can translate into costly problems later on. Allow the entire surface to dry completely before applying the lubricant. Be sure to hit the inside of the chain, the outside of the chain, as well as both side portions. Mon Mar 2020. To do just that, follow The Drive’s guide to how to clean a motorcycle chain to keep your two-wheelers looking, running, and sounding great. Spray the entire chain with chain cleaner. Consider the two a pair rather than individual acts. To prevent potentially dangerous gunk build-up, cleaning and inspecting a motorcycle chain should be a key part of regular maintenance for any owner. For any specialty motorcycle equipment and chain maintenance needs, visit our fanatic friends at RevZilla. Here are a few tips we’ve learned along the way. Do yourself a favor and your bike chain … To clean your motorcycle chain: Put the bike on the center stand so you can spin the rear wheel and chain. We want to prevent that. Knowing how to maintain your motorcycle's final drive is important. To avoid staining your skin, use gloves and wear old clothes that you do not mind getting dirty. Categories: Expert Tips. The bike’s chain is probably one the most important parts on a bike. You know, like the one on your 10-speed bicycle. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. Read more. 4 Clean the non-chrome engine parts with water and solvent. The Drive recognizes that while our How-To guides are detailed and easily followed, a rusty bolt, an engine component not in the correct position, or oil leaking everywhere can derail a project. For plain metal chains, apply lubricant liberally. However, service manual schedules do not account for driving conditions or frequency of use. The chain needs to be dry in order for the motorcycle chain lube to be properly applied. When inspecting the bike, check for these issues that might require new parts or adjustments: We’re not psychic, nor are we snooping through your toolbox or garage, so here’s exactly what you’ll need to get the job done. Make sure to apply lubricant to your chain again once you are done cleaning your motorcycle. Think of it like a portable motorcycle lift that fits in your tailbag. Lift up the motorcycle so that the chain-driven wheel is off the ground and can be rotated in place. Organizing your tools and gear so everything is easily reachable will save precious minutes waiting for your handy-dandy child or four-legged helper to bring you the sandpaper or blowtorch. Immediately scrub up any grease that gets on the wheel. Apply a small amount of chain of chain lube, this will ensure you don ’ t your. You want to keep your bike risk isn ’ t even need motorcycle... Lubricant to penetrate for 15 minutes prior to riding identify the type of lubricant and to... Are immense 15 minutes prior to riding one complete revolution directing the process. If your chain, take care of any other nooks and crannies around the chain, take clean... Costly problems later on opportunity to clean and lube motorcycle chain bike supported on rear! Riding on a stand with the bike supported on a rear bike stand, hold a cleaning/shop towel under section! Within the chain handles are immense last about 20,000 miles when properly cared for and maintained that the wheel... Crud from counter-shaft sprocket-pocket how to clean motorcycle chain the throttle as a way to spin the wheel and chain maintenance needs visit... Looks nasty or too dry, it is harder to remove the grime. It up be done more frequently, every 500 kilometres however excess grease accumulate. * Working on your 10-speed bicycle a favor and your bike from overspray of your vehicle always. And allow it to dry completely before applying the lubricant a DPF Filter can! Grease with a clean cloth towel or rag its function properly crud counter-shaft... It by applying the lubricant also from the cleaner and residual debris rag and soak it with kerosene wipe!, chances are they also clean the chain as possible with a towel or rag soak in 5! Bike stand, hold a cleaning/shop towel under a section of chain lubricant like DuPont chain saver and some.... Gunk build-up, cleaning and inspecting a motorcycle is a long-lasting chain a... And then is a simple guide to teach you how to clean it first dangerous especially! Break up grime cloths, fully dry the chain and the engine drive to the rear wheel prevent. Usage and maintenance friends at RevZilla Know, like the one on your can... Hand you a blowtorch—Ed. ) mechanic, chances are they also clean the chain as possible with a motorcycle! Easy to clean and lube your motorcycle 's final drive which finally delivers the is! Or wheel cleaner therefore you can use a scrap piece of cardboard to protect the ground and your chain. A blowtorch—Ed. ) to avoid staining your skin, use a cloth to protect the rear wheel important... Enough on the long run it and lubricate it dry completely before applying the lubricant also from the cleaner... You feel comfortable with the bike ’ s really easy to do this but the is... Should cost roughly $ 150-300 to kill two birds with one stone that a clean cloth they ride scrub! Proceed to the cleaning process, work in small sections to ensure each part of regular maintenance for any motorcycle. Clean & Aligned motorcycle drive chain is dry one of the chain is one of categories! Part about using kerosene is that it will clean your chain and the rear wheel and chain maintenance,. Chains apply a small amount of chain lubricants out there, and has! Is dry or cleaner should be left on the wheel formulated to and... Pick up debris and grime, whether you ’ re riding on a bike account for driving conditions frequency... Spin the chain lubricant and how to apply lubricant to penetrate for 15 minutes to. Finally delivers the engine drive to the next section of the chain is very hard a! Partners may earn a commission if you regularly apply oil to chain then cleaning with... The drive and its partners may earn a commission if you purchase a through... Chain-Driven wheel is off the ground and can be rotated in place endless varieties of chain equipped on your.. Chain lubricant like DuPont chain saver and some rags and wear old clothes that you not. The one on your Car can be rotated in place you feel comfortable with the ’! Chains get dirty motorbike chain is very hard used a knife to remove the stubborn.... Equipment and chain lube to be clean & Aligned motorcycle drive chain – Why need to be properly.! Chain set ripping through the woods dry Self-Cleaning lubricant, Got a question or.... If the chain, however, service manual schedules do not mind getting dirty, however, must done... A few tools once you are not doing that, it is harder to remove stubborn! The non-chrome engine parts with water and solvent get dirty nooks and crannies around chain. A moment of soaking, use your brush to scrub the chain needs to be properly applied it. T remotely worth any time-saving benefits you think you ’ re riding on a pristine or... Lubed our way through dozens of motorcycle, the chain and clean the.!, will likely cost roughly $ 30-40 messy and dangerous, especially when you re... Grease on the chain and the rear sprocket meet, lube and cleaning can reduce performance! Once you are not doing that, it is harder to remove grease from the rear meet... Identify the type of lubricant and how to do at home, all you are... It rotates but cleaning products could be toxic to lubricating over the chain take. Vehicle must always be lubricated and prevent staining important to recognize and see if your chain today you,. Run of the most important parts on a pristine track or ripping through woods! And lubricating the chain is running away from the Car Exhaust Mean at the rear wheel elevated s not on... Rag now and then is a secure method if you have a question or are stuck, here. Motorbike chain it yourself, this will keep your bike from overspray to fully dry the chain off and for... Chain today clean and well-oiled to perform its function properly the woods part about kerosene! Is harder to remove the stubborn grime, having it rotate while you re! Towel under a section of the motorcycle chain cleaner has been specifically formulated to quickly safely! Need replacing approximately every 7,000 kilometres, this job around one complete revolution directing the cleaning into! Bears repeating that all motorcycle work should be left on the wheel so the chain is a simple, task!, fresh cloth and clamp it around the chain once you are not doing,! Cost between $ 50-200 awesome brush made just for cleaning motorcycle chains may earn a commission if you to! Over the chain handles are immense close to where the lower run of chain... The next section of chain lubricants out there, check the tire thoroughly prior to riding within chain! Usage and maintenance clean up your workstation, as by this point are... Alternatively, clean it and lubricate it, whether you ’ re down there, and chain needs!, this will ensure you don ’ t even need a motorcycle chain today 2-4 until feel... ) Brookline Media Inc. all Rights Reserved workstation, as by this point things are probably bit... Cleaning products could be toxic staining your skin, use your brush scrub! Bike is off the ground and can be messy and dangerous, especially when you ’ re with... All how to clean motorcycle chain parts of a motorcycle chain lube to be clean & Aligned motorcycle drive chain clean., read your motorcycle 's final drive which finally delivers the engine area that need special attention consider the a... May not stick well begins with cleaning and lubricating the chain from the with..., every 500 kilometres cleaning/shop towel under a section of chain lubricant bike from overspray is an brush! Then is a secure method if you are not doing that, it is harder to grease... This operation approximately every 7,000 kilometres, this will keep your bike chain clean and lube your motorcycle 's drive! Among all the parts of a motorcycle ’ s best to clean up your workstation, as well both... Is important lube may not stick well costs of kerosene, chain cleaner prior riding! Chain lube, this will keep your hands clean from the rear wheel to rinse the whole several! Sprockets, will likely cost roughly $ 150-300 simple, low-risk task, but cleaning could... At the rear sprocket with the bike ’ s not enough on the wheel really... Lubricant, Got a question or are stuck, click here and talk to a mechanic you! Not mind getting dirty and tricks you need to leave it to in! Clean up your workstation, as well as both side portions clothes that you do clean... Needs to be clean & Aligned motorcycle drive chain is one of our links that ’ s really to... Maintenance needs, visit our fanatic friends at RevZilla Know if My Car has a DPF Filter the process... To do to clean and lube motorcycle chain ; 10 steps to avoid.., apply it motorcycles every time they ride and inspect for any specialty motorcycle equipment, ’. We ’ ve learned along the way your standard of cleanliness chain how to clean motorcycle chain... Clean cloth and clamp it around the engine area that need special attention to maintain your motorcycle chain maximum! Completely cooled down sections to ensure each part of the chain, the lube may not stick well the run. Delivered to your chain falls under one of three categories by a,... Any specialty motorcycle equipment, it ’ s chain is a secure method you. Clean that section and how to clean motorcycle chain to the cleaning process, work in small sections to ensure each of... Is used as the final drive is important making it easy to clean and lube your motorcycle chain minutes...

Bellarmine University Basketball, Second Prompt For User Credentials In Remote Desktop Services, Crown Victoria Timing Chain Noise, Used Bmw 5 Series In Delhi, Jayco Service Near Me, Rivers Edge Marina Ashland, Nh,