Motorcycle Chain Care: Cleaning, Lubing and Adjusting

30 June 2026 · 6 min read

Why the chain matters

On most motorbikes, the chain is what takes the power from the engine to the back wheel. It works hard, it sits out in the rain and road grime, and it wears with every mile.

A well looked-after chain runs smoothly and lasts much longer. A neglected one wears the sprockets, makes the drive feel snatchy, and in the worst case can snap or come off.

The good news is that basic chain care is one of the easiest jobs to do at home. You need a paddock stand or someone to help turn the wheel, a brush, chain cleaner and a decent lube.

Cleaning and lubing

Grit mixed with old lube acts like a grinding paste on the chain and sprockets. Clean the chain with a chain cleaner or a suitable degreaser and a soft brush, working round the whole length. Avoid harsh solvents and pressure washers, as they can damage the O-ring seals on most modern chains.

Once it is clean and dry, apply a chain lube made for your type of chain to the inside of the links, where they meet the sprockets. Let it soak in before you ride so it does not fling off.

How often depends on how and when you ride. Many riders lube every few hundred miles, and always after a ride in the wet. Your handbook will give a guide for your bike.

Getting the tension right

Every bike has a set amount of slack the chain should have, measured at the midpoint of the lower run. It is usually listed in the handbook and often on a sticker on the swingarm.

Too tight, and the chain puts strain on the gearbox output shaft and wheel bearings, especially as the suspension moves. Too loose, and it can slap, jump the sprocket or wear quickly.

When adjusting, keep the back wheel lined up straight using the marks on both sides of the swingarm. A wheel out of line wears the chain and sprockets unevenly and can affect handling.

Signs it is time to replace

Chains stretch as the pins and rollers wear. If you keep having to adjust it, or you have run out of adjustment, the chain is likely worn out.

Try pulling the chain away from the back of the rear sprocket. If it lifts away noticeably, it is worn. Look for tight spots where links have seized, and for sprocket teeth that look hooked or pointed rather than evenly rounded.

Chains and sprockets wear together, so they are usually replaced as a set. Fitting a new chain on worn sprockets wears the new chain out much sooner.

Bring it to us

We check and replace chains and sprockets in our workshop in Pelsall, where we have a motorbike lift. We will tell you honestly whether yours needs replacing now or has plenty of life left, and give you a quote before any work starts.

If we fit a new chain and sprockets, we set the tension and line up the back wheel properly, and we can show you what to look for so you can keep it in good shape between visits.

call us on 01922 682200 to book. And if you are local to Walsall, come and say hello at one of our bike meets outside the garage.

Book a chain and sprocket check in Walsall →

Need help with your car?

Call Pelsall Village Garage for clear advice and a fast booking.

Call 01922 682200