By: By: Terry Price
Is your motorcycle’s chain squeaking or dry? Before you undertake any type of a small maintenance job, it is best to consult the owner's manual specific to your type of bike. Most manuals will make recommendations on chain oiling, but when there are none available please consider the following. The amount of lubrication that you apply to your motorcycle chain and the frequency of the application basically depends upon where you drive your motorcycle the most. If you do most of your riding on normal streets, your chain is not going to require much cleaning. WD-40 and a rag are about all you need to get this simple job done.
If you are using gear oil, make sure that the chain is warm before applying. The best time to apply the oil is after your last ride of the day and remember to use a brush and not the oil can. Also put something under the chain to catch the drips. It is a good idea to keep an old rag handy to wipe off any excess, then let it sit overnight. Remember if you are spraying WD-40 on a warm chain give it a couple of minutes to drip off, wipe off any excess, then feel free to ride anytime. If you prefer a spray-on lube, don't over saturate, and be sure to spray the lube on the inside of the chain. When you ride your bike the next time, it will be flung out through the chain.
If you have an O-ring chain, it is best to lube it when it's hot. Spray your lube directly at the center of the rollers and at the rear of the rear sprocket. Move the rear wheel ever so slowly and continue to apply and let dry. Motor oil and WD-40 are the easiest to clean up, but can also create a big mess when it comes time to fly off. If you use chain wax, this leaves the least amount of fly off, but it can build up after a while. When purchasing your bike remember to get a center stand. A good rule of thumb is to lube every 500 miles or so. Remember to keep the rest of your bike as clean as possible, and ride your bike right after oiling to work it in, and wipe away any excess afterwards.
