what is the best way to clean a motorcycle chain and how often should it be done?

Answer 1

I use Motul chain cleaner, then a chain wax. Lube it every 500 miles at least, although some manufacturers recommend more frequently, some less. Triumph recommends every 200 miles....

With modern chains, you are not lubricating so much as cleaning when you use a chain lube. O-ring chains are self lubricated. They also generally don't have removable master links any more (they are riveted, because the removable type are not considered safe), so you cannot remove the chain to clean it without using a breaker. Be careful with WD-40 on o-ring and x-ring chains - some say it can dry out the rubber rings on these chains. It is best to stick with a chain cleaner designed for the task.

If you don't like the task, you can install a device like a Scott Oiler or Hawk Oiler to do this automagically.

Glad no one has been smart *** and said "get a shaft drive" yet - chains are much more efficient at transferring power, and should last at least 20k miles with proper care.

Answer 2

I clean my motorcycle almost everytime before i take it out, wipe it down and shine the chrome. As im doing this im also doing somewhat of a safety check. Anything i can do to increase my safety i will do as often as possible, as well as keeping my ride clean. I make sure all the lights work, tire pressure is okay and that both brakes are working. So pretty much i do this everytime before i ride which is at least 4 times a week.

Answer 3

First you brush it hard and thoroughly with a wire brush.
This gets as much grit off as possible before you work it into the joints by soaking or oiling.
(Some guys soak, I don't. Too lazy, and it doesn't appear to do more than carry the dirt farther.into the chain.)
Then apply lube. Work it in by spinning the wheel for a bit.
Then wipe off all but a thin coat of the lube with a rag. Wipe the sprockets too.
Extra lube just hold grit.

Answer 4

don't use spray can brake cleaner because its bad for the o rings some spray carb cleaners are safe but most aren't, wd 40 is ok but make sure you shield your tire with a piece of card board unless you like your rear to slide out then catch suddenly on left hand sweepers. after you get it clean spray both sides with p j 1 or something similar. about every 6 or 8 weeks is plenty because o ring chains are internally greased so you just need to keep the rust & grime off. up until the early 80s harleys had an automatic chain oiler that you set at 2 or 3 drops a minute dont know if any other makes have that. it kept your chain clean & lubed but if you set at a stop light 3 min thats 8 or 10 oil drips under the bike so they quit that feature about 83 or so when they started using belts.

Answer 5

Never use WD40 on a chain. It will work it's way past the o-rings and break down the lubricant. Spray with a quality chain lube as recommended by the owner's manual.


6 years MC shop exp.

Answer 6

Chain Lube and whenever the chain looks rusty or dried out.

Answer 7

kerosene soak it for a bit, the get a brush and wipe it all of

Answer 8

I just lick mine clean like a mother cat grooming a kitten. I do this during my pre-ride inspection, everyday. Thanks for the points!

Answer 9

first of all you oil it .. its like wd 40 but check with your manual
about plastic o rings...