Motorcycle Chain Maintenance Guide
Owning a motorcycle is about more than just fun rides and relaxing road trips. Bikes are a serious responsibility and these machines require regular maintenance to ensure that they will last for as long as possible. One upkeep task that is often neglected is caring for your bike chain. Motorcycle chains play an important role in the bike’s performance and are an essential part of how the vehicle moves. That’s why you’ll want to pay close attention to this part of the bike when you’re working on maintenance. Chain maintenance can be carried out from the comfort of your garage, so check out the tips we’ve provided in this brief guide.
Inspection
Doing a thorough inspection is perhaps one of the simplest ways to ensure that your bike’s chain is working properly. We recommend doing this a couple of times a month or after every 500-700 miles.
Gently pull the chain up and down by one inch. This lets you know if the chain is too tight or too loose. Your owner’s manual will provide more information on precisely how tight the chain should be.
Next, look for cracks and damage along the entirety of the chain by rolling the bike forward and backward. Make sure that the sprockets are free of damage and excessive wear. If you notice that there is a problem, it could be a sign that there are some internal connection issues, or you might need new parts altogether.
Cleaning the Chain
The chain will also need to be cleaned, probably as often as you inspect it. This will ensure that it’s functioning properly and you don’t accelerate the wearing process. Start by soaking the chain in a compatible cleaning product or check your owner’s manual for recommendations. Use your brush to scrub away the dirt and grime. This will take time and patience, but it’s better to be thorough now than to have a bigger task on your hands later. Allow the chain to dry before moving on, either by letting it air dry or using a towel.
Lubrication
Once the chain is dry, it’ll need to be lubricated. Spray the lubricant on the chain while rotating the tire so you can cover every inch of it. Lubricate all the sides, then wipe away the excess lubricant. Make sure you’re following directions, and this might be the best time to adjust the chain tension if needed.
Keeping the chain clean and ready to roll is essential to ensure the proper functioning of your bike. If you need assistance with maintenance or repairs, feel free to get in touch with us at St. Charles Harley-Davidson®. We are located in St. Charles, MO, where we serve all those in St. Louis and St. Peters.