How To Lubricate Your Motorcycle Chain | MC Garage, by Motorcyclist Magazine on YouTube. 3 min 6 s.
- Video length
- 3 min 6 s
- Time to do it
- 20 minutes
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Steps
- 8
What you need
Steps
Check the chain and sprockets for rust and wear, and confirm chain slack against your service manual. Adjust the slack if it is out of spec before you clean or lube.
Put the rear wheel off the ground using the centre stand or a rear stand. This lets you spin the wheel and reach the whole chain.
Put on gloves and slide a piece of cardboard behind the chain to protect the tyre and wheel from cleaner and lube overspray.
Spray an O-ring safe chain cleaner onto the chain and brush the rollers and plates. Wipe away dirt and grime with a clean rag.
Let the chain dry before you apply new lubricant. Turn the rear wheel and check that the full length of the chain is clean.
Shift the bike into neutral. Rotate the rear wheel with one hand and spray motorcycle-specific chain lube on the top of the chain below the swingarm.
Aim the lube at the rollers and plates, not just the side plates. Use short bursts and keep the cardboard in place to catch overspray.
Wipe off excess lube with a clean rag and let the chain sit for a few minutes. Check the chain slack once more before you ride.
Tips and common mistakes
Lube the chain every third or fourth fuel fill, and more often if you ride in rain.
Never use WD-40 as chain lube. It can help clean the chain, but it will not lubricate the rollers and bushings.
Do not run the engine in gear while you spray lube. Keep fingers and the can clear of the chain and sprocket.
Too much lube attracts dirt, so wipe off the excess after spraying.
Questions
How often should I lubricate my motorcycle chain?
Lube it every third or fourth time you fill the tank. Increase the frequency if you often ride in rain.
Can I use WD-40 as motorcycle chain lube?
No. WD-40 can help clean the chain, but it is not a lubricant. Use a motorcycle-specific chain lube on the rollers and plates.
Do I need to clean the chain before applying lube?
Yes, when you can. Removing dirt and grime first helps the chain and sprockets last longer.
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.
