How Often Should You Lube Your Motorcycle Chain?
Maintaining your motorcycle’s chain is critical for optimal performance. But the question is, how frequently should you lubricate your motorcycle chain? Neglecting proper chain lubrication can lead to a variety of problems, including:
- 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.
When to Clean and Lubricate the Chain
To keep your motorcycle chain in top condition, periodically, it should be:
- Checked
- Adjusted
- Lubricated
It is advised that the chain be cleaned and lubricated every 500 kms. After washing your motorcycle, travelling in the rain, or traversing damp terrain, you should inspect the chain. Before adjusting the chain and applying the manufacturer-recommended lubrication, check for slack, alignment, and general condition.
The Importance of Chain Lubrication
A motorcycle’s chain is used to transfer power from the engine to the rear wheel. Lubricating the chain properly is essential for smooth and effective movement. Lubrication failure might result in substantial power loss during gear changes. This could lead to decreased mileage and fuel efficiency. Proper chain lubrication also reduces wear and tear, preventing chain sprocket damage. By examining and lubricating the motorcycle chain on a regular basis, you can ensure proper power transfer and avoid potential problems.
Consequences of Neglecting Chain Lubrication
Failure to check, adjust, and lube the motorbike chain on a regular basis can have a negative impact on the motorcycle’s performance. Inadequate chain lubrication causes power transmission from the engine to the rear tyre to be unequal. This can result in lower mileage and fuel efficiency. In addition, jerky wheel motions occur as a result of insufficient power delivery, negatively impacting the entire riding experience. Excessive wear and tear is caused by insufficient lubrication. This causes excessive heat, which might destroy the chain sprockets. To avoid these issues, it is vital to prioritise frequent chain lubrication.
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 (check your motorcycle manual) generally it is in between 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.
