How to Take Care of Your Motorcycle Chain

This article is designed as a complete guide to motorcycle chain maintenance. It also works as a tips-and-hacks guide for new bikers.

The chain is one of the most important parts of a motorcycle, determining how smoothly the bike will run. For sports bikes especially, cleaning the chain regularly is essential. It’s best if you clean and maintain it yourself.

Washing every 800–1,000 km is a good practice to keep the bike running properly. In Bangladesh, given the dusty and muddy road conditions, keeping the motorcycle chain clean is even more critical.

Though some bikes have chain covers, most sports bikes don’t. Chain covers are usually common on 125cc and below bikes. Chains are mainly of two types: O-ring chains and non-O-ring chains. O-ring chains require more careful maintenance as they tend to be less durable.

If your bike is chain-driven, you must take extra care by cleaning and lubricating it regularly. Sports bikes with metallic chains especially need proper maintenance to stay flexible. A neglected chain can reduce your bike’s performance.

Tools for Motorcycle Chain Maintenance

Essential tools for chain maintenance include:

• Three-way chain brush or toothbrush
• Chain cleaner wipes or soft cloth
• Chain lubricant
• Chain oil / chain cleaner spray (motorcycle chain cleaner alternative: kerosene)

How to Clean a Motorcycle Chain

1. Remove the chain cover (if present). Apply kerosene with a toothbrush, making sure to coat both sides of the chain while rotating the rear wheel.
2. Wait 10–15 minutes so that mud and dirt soften. Then scrub thoroughly with a three-way chain brush.
3. Spray kerosene or chain cleaner again. Wipe the chain clean with a soft cloth.
4. WD-40 is the most widely used chain spray (price: 240–450 BDT). It’s effective and safe for motorcycle chains.
5. WD-40 dissolves dirt quickly and doesn’t contain harmful chemicals.
6. After the first round of cleaning, the chain should feel lighter. After the second round, rotate the wheel a few times to check for remaining dirt.

Lubrication

1. “Lubrication is the key to keeping things smooth.” This is especially true for motorcycle chains. Chain covers protect the chain from water and dust.
2. Lubricate the chain every 800 km. Keep the chain covered after lubrication to prevent dirt from sticking.
3. A properly lubricated chain will eliminate squeaks, rattling, or grinding noises.

Precautions for Chain Cleaning

• Never use water or detergent to wash the chain.
• Do not use engine oil, gear oil, or thin engine oil instead of chain spray—they will harden and damage moving parts.
• Cover the wheel with paper to protect it while spraying the chain.
• Kerosene is only for removing old lubricant; use chain spray for dust and mud cleaning.
• Never clean the chain with the engine running.
• During rainy season, clean the chain more frequently.

In conclusion, chain longevity depends on both maintenance and how the bike is ridden. Following these guidelines will help beginners and pro bikers alike keep their chains in the best condition.

FAQ

1. Motorcycle chain wax vs lube—which is best?

Lube works faster, but wax lasts longer. The choice depends on your usage.

2. What are motorcycle chain cleaner alternatives?

Kerosene is the most common alternative to chain cleaners.

3. How often should I service my motorcycle chain?

Chain service should be done every 800–1,500 km.

4. How to tell if a motorcycle chain needs lubrication?

You’ll hear unusual noises and feel increased vibration.

5. Can I wash a motorcycle chain with kerosene?

Yes, kerosene is suitable for cleaning chains.