Motorcycle Chain Care: 10 Cleaning, Lubrication & Adjustment Tips
Your motorcycle’s chain does more than just spin the rear wheel—it’s the silent hero transferring your engine’s power with precision and reliability. Yet, many riders in Bangladesh overlook chain care until something goes wrong. Ignore it long enough, and you risk poor performance, expensive repairs, or even a breakdown on a Dhaka highway.
Whether you ride daily to work through city traffic or hit the highways on weekends, taking care of your chain is one of the easiest ways to keep your bike running smoothly.
Here are ten practical, no-fluff tips to clean, lubricate, and adjust your motorcycle chain like a pro.
1. Inspect and Clean It—Often
You don’t need to be a mechanic. A quick look every few rides can save you from trouble later. Ideally, clean your chain every 500–700 km, or sooner if you’ve ridden through rain or muddy roads. Use a soft brush and a good-quality cleaner—something like Liqui Moly, Motul, or local options like ACI Smart Chain Cleaner or Runner Chain Spray. Don’t ignore signs of rust or slack—fix them early.
2. Use the Right Cleaner
Avoid petrol or diesel—they might remove dirt, but will damage your chain’s O-rings. Stick to motorcycle-specific cleaners or kerosene if you’re on a budget. These clean without harming the seals.
3. Brush Gently, Wipe Completely
Use a medium-bristle brush or an old toothbrush to scrub the grime away. After cleaning, wipe the chain dry with a clean cloth. Moisture is the enemy—it invites rust fast, especially in our humid weather. Never use a wire brush; it’ll scratch and weaken your chain.
4. Lubricate Only When It’s Clean
Don’t lube a dirty chain—it traps grit and shortens lifespan. Once dry, spray lubricant evenly along the inner side of the chain while rotating the wheel. That’s where most of the friction happens.
5. Easy on the Lube
Too much lube attracts dust and turns sticky. A light, even coat across both sides of the chain and sprocket is perfect. You can use Motul Chain Lube, Liqui Moly, or budget-friendly local options like ACI Smart Lube or Lube Max.
6. Get the Tension Just Right
Tight chains stress the sprockets and bearings; loose chains can slip off. Most bikes run best with 25–35 mm of slack, but check your bike’s manual. Always measure while sitting on the bike or with the load applied.
7. Watch for Wear and Rust
Look out for stiff or frozen links. If your chain needs frequent adjustment or looks rusty, it’s time to replace it. Also, inspect your sprockets—if the teeth are sharp or uneven, replace both the chain and the sprocket together.
8. Align the Sprockets
Misaligned sprockets not only wear your chain faster but also affect your bike’s handling. After adjusting the chain, make sure both sides of the rear wheel are aligned evenly.
9. Ride Like Your Chain Matters
Hard launches, sudden gear shifts, or clutch popping may look fun, but they kill your drivetrain. Smooth riding isn’t just good style; it helps your chain and engine last longer.
10. Stick to a Routine
Chain care isn’t a one-time thing. After riding through rain, mud, or Dhaka dust, give your chain some love. A quick check every 500–800 km keeps everything running efficiently.
Final Thoughts
Motorcycle chain care isn’t glamorous, but it’s essential. A few minutes of maintenance every couple of weeks can dramatically improve your bike’s performance, fuel efficiency, and long-term durability. These ten tips aren’t complicated—but skip them, and you’ll eventually feel it where it hurts: your wallet and your ride quality.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How often should a motorcycle chain be cleaned?
Generally, it is best to clean the chain every 500–700 kilometers. If it is ridden in dusty or rainy conditions, it should be cleaned more frequently.
2. What type of cleaner is best for cleaning the chain?
It is best to use a chain cleaner specifically for motorbike chains. Kerosene can also be used, but it is best not to use gasoline or diesel.
3. How often should the chain be lubricated?
The chain should be lubricated every 500–600 kilometers or after rain.
4. What happens if the chain is too tight?
If the chain is too tight, the sprocket, bearings, and suspension can be damaged, and riding comfort is also reduced.
5. What should you be careful about when adjusting the chain?
When adjusting, pull both sides equally so that the chain is straight and sits properly on the sprocket.
