Motorcycle chains are one of the main components in two-wheeled vehicles such as motorbikes. Motorcycle performance will be disrupted if the motorcycle chain is not in good condition. Motorcycle chains are often exposed to dirt such as dust, mud and rainwater. This will interfere with the performance of the chain as the main drive in two-wheeled vehicles. If the chain is not maintained and left in a "bad" condition, the chain can rust, wear out and possibly break suddenly.
How important is it to clean a motorcycle chain?
A dirty motorcycle chain causes various problems. In addition, cleaning the motorcycle chain is very important in order to minimize some of the risks below
- Rusty chain: Dirt accelerates the corrosion process. The rusty chain will lose strength.
- Chain life: Leaving the chain dirty and not cleaning it immediately causes the chain to break quickly.
- Motorcycle performance: A motorcycle with a chain that is never cleaned slows down chain performance. This is because the chain is not properly lubricated.
- Driving safety: The risk of a sudden chain breakage will endanger the rider. This is why maintaining the cleanliness of the motorcycle chain is important.
When is the right time to clean the chain?
Cleaning a motorcycle chain certainly does not have to wait until the chain is very dirty. Some of the indicators below can help determine when is the right time to clean a motorcycle chain.
- Routine: The motorcycle chain should be cleaned every 500-700km. Depending on how often the motorbike is used and the road conditions passed.
- After driving in extreme conditions: Immediately clean the chain if you ride on muddy, sandy roads or after being exposed to rain. This helps prevent the risk of dirt building up and the chain rusting.
- Signs of a dirty chain: You should immediately clean the chain if the motorbike starts to make a noisy sound or feels stiff when turned. The most obvious sign is if you see dirt clumping.
How to clean a chain?
Cleaning a motorcycle chain can be done by yourself without professional help. Here are the steps.
- Spray degreaser or apply kerosene to the chain.
- Use a brush to scrub the entire surface of the chain. Brush the chain thoroughly including the inside of the chain. Make sure to brush the parts with stubborn dirt until clean.
- Turn the rear wheel slowly to make sure the entire chain is cleaned.
- Rinse the chain using water to remove any remaining cleaning fluid
- Use a cloth or microfiber cloth to dry the chain until it is completely clean, no water left.
- Spray chain lubricant evenly.
- Avoid spraying too much lubricant. because it can attract dirt faster.
Maintaining a motorcycle chain is not only about keeping it clean, but also about ensuring your safety and comfort while riding. With simple steps such as cleaning, drying, and lubricating the chain regularly, you can extend the life of the chain while maintaining optimal motorcycle performance. Don't forget, consistent maintenance will save repair costs and provide a better riding experience.
So, from now on, make motorcycle chain maintenance a part of your routine.