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Motorcycle Chain Maintenance

Jun. 28 2023 Maintenance By North County Indian Motorcycle®

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Your motorcycle’s chain plays an important part in your model’s overall speed and performance. As such, it’s vital to maintain your model’s chain regularly and ensure that you’re using the correct products. To learn how to care for your motorcycle chain and what supplies you’ll need to get the job done, read through our helpful advice below. 

Supplies

To ensure your motorcycle’s chain lasts as long as possible, you’ll want to clean it thoroughly every 500 to 700 miles. However, before you get started, you’ll need to gather a few supplies to help get your chain squeaky clean. To start, find a specialty brush—or a toothbrush if that’s all you have—to get in between your chain’s metal links. You’ll also need to purchase a chain cleaner and lubricant if you don’t already have them, and you’ll want to be sure to have a towel and a stand for your motorcycle on hand before you get started

Cleaning the Chain

Before you get started, you’ll first need to give your chain a quick inspection. Pull the chain forward and back an inch or so to be sure it isn’t too tight or loose, and check that the sprocket’s teeth are aligned with the chain correctly. If everything checks out, go ahead and grab your cleaner and begin soaking your chain in the product. Follow up with your brush and remove any grease, muck, or rust that’s built up on your chain. Once your chain has dried completely, apply lubricant to all four sides of the chain—rotating the back tire as you go to reach every nook and cranny. Afterward, wipe away the excess lubricant and allow the product to sit for as long as the bottle instructs. 

Your motorcycle’s chain is one of its most important components, and even small damages can have huge effects on your model’s performance. If you notice that your chain has been damaged beyond repair, or needs more serious adjustments, feel free to visit us here at North County Indian Motorcycle for a helpful replacement or repair. We have two convenient locations San Marcos and Corona, CA and we proudly serve the nearby cities of San Diego and Oceanside, CA.