Those of us who ride motorcycles regularly or as a hobby must check whether the bike is in proper condition before riding. Among other parts, the chain is crucial. At the beginning of each ride, check whether the chain is in good condition along with other parts.
Long periods of road riding can lead to chain corrosion, dirt accumulation, lubricants, and other debris. Chains should always be kept clean to run smoothly on the road.
Maintaining a motorcycle chain is an important task for the rider. Sometimes, we can’t visit a motorcycle service center. We need to clean the motorcycle chain when necessary. The chain is one of the most essential parts of a motorcycle because it drives the wheel. If the chain is not clean, we may face some problems. Therefore, we need to clean our motorcycle chain regularly.
Today, I will explain some tips on how to clean your chain quickly.
First, We Need Some Equipment
- A piece of dry cloth
- Safety glasses (if any)
- Wrench (to open the chain cover)
- Chain cleaner
- Brush
- Lubricant oil/chain oil
If you don’t want to go to a service center or encounter a situation where chain cleaning is necessary, here are the steps you should follow to clean your chain.
How to Clean the Chain
The chain usually accumulates dust, sand, lubricants, and other impurities, which can cause the chain cover to rattle and lead to discomfort while riding. Cleaning the chain can help solve these issues.
- Stabilize the Motorcycle: Use a double stand to keep the motorcycle stable. Ensure the motorcycle is securely parked, and the chain cover is accessible.
- Prepare the Chain Cover: Use a dry cloth and a brush to clean the exterior of the chain cover. Once the cover is clean, remove it to expose the chain.
- Clean the Chain: After removing the chain cover, use water to clean the chain. Allow the chain to dry before proceeding with further cleaning.
- Clean the Inside of the Chain Cover: Use a brush or a screwdriver with a chain cleaner to clean the inside of the chain cover thoroughly.
- Inspect and Clean the Chain: With the chain cover off, inspect the chain. If it’s dirty, use a brush and a dry cloth to clean it. Rotate the chain using the double stand to ensure all parts are cleaned. Repeat this process two or three times if necessary.
- Apply Chain Cleaner and Lubricant: Apply chain cleaner to the chain and run the engine to distribute it evenly. Once clean, apply chain oil or lubricant to the chain.
- Reassemble the Chain Cover: Once the chain and the chain cover are clean and dry, reattach the chain cover.
- Complete the Process: Some riders prefer to give their motorcycle a full wash after cleaning the chain. This can be a good opportunity to ensure the entire bike is clean.
Finally, ensure everything is securely reassembled, and enjoy your ride with a well-maintained chain!
