How to clean and lube your motorcycle chain ##Ninja500 #KawasakiNinja500 #NinjaLife #KawasakiLife, by DopeyNinja on YouTube. 2 min 19 s.
- Video length
- 2 min 19 s
- Time to do it
- 20 minutes
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Steps
- 8
What you need
Steps
Put the bike on a rear paddock stand or centre stand on level ground. Turn the engine off, leave the gearbox in neutral and let the chain cool.
Wrap a rag or piece of cardboard behind the chain to catch cleaner and lube. Wear nitrile gloves and work in a ventilated area.
Spray chain cleaner onto a rag or stiff brush, not directly at the seals. Scrub the lower run while turning the rear wheel slowly by hand.
Use a stiff nylon chain brush for heavy grime. Do not use a wire brush or pressure washer near O-rings or X-rings.
Wipe the chain with a dry rag until the side plates and rollers are clean. Let the cleaner evaporate completely before you add lube.
Apply chain lube to the inside of the lower chain run while turning the wheel slowly. Use a thin, even coat on the rollers and side plates.
Wait 10 to 15 minutes for the lube to set. Wipe off excess lube from the side plates and rear rim so dirt does not stick.
Check chain slack against the sticker or owner's manual before you ride. Spin the rear wheel and make sure the chain runs smoothly.
Tips and common mistakes
Never clean or lube a chain with the engine running or the bike in gear; your fingers can be pulled into the sprocket.
Avoid pressure washers and wire brushes, which can damage O-rings or X-rings and push water past the seals.
Lube the chain after a ride while it is warm, not hot, so the lubricant can soak in.
Check your owner's manual for the chain slack and service interval; rain and dust mean more frequent cleaning.
Questions
Can I use WD-40 instead of chain lube?
Standard WD-40 is a water displacer, not a chain lubricant. Use a dedicated motorcycle chain lube and follow the label.
Do I have to remove the chain to clean it?
No. Routine cleaning can be done in place on a paddock stand. Remove the chain only if the owner's manual says so or it is heavily contaminated.
How much lube should I apply?
A thin, even coat on the rollers and side plates is enough. Too much lube attracts grit, so wipe off the excess after it sets.
This guide was drafted from the video's details and general task knowledge. It has not been checked against the full video. Check the video and relevant product instructions before following a procedure. Report a correction.
