Complete motorcycle chain maintenance in 8 steps

Step-by-step motorcycle chain maintenance:

1. Lift the rear wheel off the ground
2. Inspect the condition of the chain
3. Clean the chain with chain cleaner and let it dry
4. Re-lubricate the chain and let the lubricant soak in
5. Remove excess lubricant
6. Lower the motorcycle
7. Final inspection
8. Repeat according to maintenance schedule

Prepare the necessary materials and products

If you have the necessary materials and products on hand, you can handle maintenance in record time. But what do you need to thoroughly maintain the chain of your motorcycle?

Motorcycle stand, center stand or paddock stand: It’s important that you can rotate the rear wheel, so you don’t have to constantly maneuver the motorcycle to lubricate the entire chain. It might be worth it to purchase a rotating rear wheel support, or you can opt for a convenient rear wheel paddock stand to assist you. Those who have a motorcycle with a center stand, won’t need anything extra.

Chain brush or toothbrush: Maintenance of the motorcycle chain is just as important as brushing our teeth. A chain brush or an old toothbrush works wonders to get the dirt out between the chain links. A claw chain brush is handy for removing stubborn dirt.

Chain Cleaner: Simply scrubbing with a chain brush is not enough. A special chain cleaner is needed to dissolve the lubricant and clean the dirt deep into the chain. We limit the choice stress at RAD and have 2 chain cleaners available. It is recommended to do this every 3 lubrications.

Clean lint-free cloths or paper towels: Lint-free cloths prevent fine dust particles from the used cloth from getting between the chain links.

Chain Lubricant: We have several types of lubricants available, each with their own purpose and lubrication interval. Lubricant is water-resistant, keeps dirt out and reduces friction inside the chain which leads to less wear and tear.

• S100 White chain spray: Street use in all conditions – Lubrication interval: 1000 km
• S100 Dry Lube chain spray: Offroad use – Lubrication interval: 600 km
• S100 High-End chain spray: Street use in extreme conditions – Lubrication interval: 700 km
• Motul MC Care chain paste: Sporty use – Lubrication interval: 500 km

Rubber gloves: Always useful for keeping things clean, unless you prefer to see the chain grease under your nails afterwards.

Ensure the chain is warm: The best time to lubricate the chain is after a ride, when it is well heated. This allows the lubricant to work effectively.

The importance of good and regular maintenance

Regularly performing chain maintenance is essential for ensuring a smooth and safe riding experience. Below you can follow our step-by-step guide.

1. Lift the rear wheel off the ground

If your motorcycle has a center stand or a paddock stand, use it to lift the rear wheel off the ground. This allows you to freely rotate the wheel for better access to the chain.

2. Inspect the condition of the chain

Perform a visual inspection of the chain and look for signs of damage, rust, or excessive wear. Check for tight spots and loose parts. If you notice issues such as loose or rusted links, address them before you continue with maintenance. If the chain needs replacing, take a look at our site and order a new chain kit for your motorcycle.

3. Clean the chain with chain cleaner and let it dry

Turn the rear wheel so that the chain is accessible along its entire length and spray the chain with chain cleaner. Protect your motorcycle by holding up a piece of cardboard as a shield or you can use a splash guard. Use a chain brush or toothbrush sprayed with chain cleaning agent to clean better between the links. Brush the chain gently while turning the wheel and clean the chain thoroughly on all sides.

Pay attention to the removal of dirt, accumulated grime, and old lubricant that is between the chain links and the gears. Use clean lint-free cloths or paper towels to wipe away excess solvent and dirt. Allow everything to dry for 5 minutes to prevent lubricating the chain on top of remnants of chain cleaner, otherwise the lubrication will have little to no effect.

4. Lubricate the chain again and let the lubricant soak in

While the chain is still slightly warm, apply a specific chain lubricant for motorcycles. Slowly turn the rear wheel and apply a thin and even layer of lubricant over the entire length of the chain. Be careful not to lubricate too much, an excess of lubricant will actually attract dirt.

Always lubricate your chain on the inside of the links. Applying chain spray on the side of your chain has little use. Moreover, centrifugal forces drive the chain grease outwards, in this case these forces will work for you.

Let the lubricant soak in for at least 10-15 minutes. This gives it time to penetrate the chain and provide sufficient lubrication. Leaving the lubricant to soak in longer won’t hurt, on the contrary. We even recommend it.

5. Remove excess lubricant

After the lubricant has been applied and given time to adhere, use a clean, lint-free cloth to gently wipe the excess lubricant from the outside of the chain. This step helps to prevent dirt accumulation.

6. Lower the motorcycle

If you have used a paddock stand, gently lower the motorcycle to the normal position. Place the bike on the side stand or center stand and begin the final inspection.

7. Final inspection

Give the chain a final visual inspection to ensure that it is well lubricated and clean. Also check the tension of the chain, it should have the amount of slack recommended by the manufacturer. You can find this in the manual or the workshop manual of your motorcycle.

8. Repeat according to maintenance schedule

Maintaining your motorcycle chain is a continuous process. Depending on the frequency with which you ride and the conditions in which you ride, you should lubricate the motorcycle chain every 500 to 1000 kilometers. It is recommended to completely clean the entire chain every 3 lubrication intervals, as we describe here.

By following these steps and maintaining a maintenance schedule, you extend the lifespan of your motorcycle chain, ensure a smooth power transmission, and enhance your riding experience. Make this a routine, you can link this action to a refuelling every 500 km or every Friday if you use the motorcycle for commuting. Oiling the chain after a ride does not take long at all and it is recommended to fully clean the chain every 1500-3000 km to get the most out of your chain.

Related links:

• Motorcycle chain and maintenance
• AFAM Chain Kits
• Maintenance and spare parts