Keeping your motorcycle chain well oiled isn’t just a matter of cleanliness – it’s essential for the performance, safety and longevity of your bike and its chain. A lubricated motorcycle chain reduces friction, extends the life of your sprockets and helps maintain consistent power delivery over the long term.
Whether you’re a new rider or a seasoned biker, understanding the best way to clean, maintain and apply lube to your chain can make all the difference and that’s why we have put together this guide on motorcycle chain lubrication, delivered by the motorcycling experts at BDLA Motorbikes.
Why Motorcycle Chain Lubrication Matters
In simple terms, a properly lubricated chain reduces friction between the rollers and sprocket teeth. Without lube, metal-on-metal contact causes unnecessary wear, heat and even damage to the o-ring or x-rings inside sealed chains. Regular lubrication helps prevent rust, corrosion and the formation of a grinding paste that can destroy your drivetrain.
It also helps protect the chain from dirt, grime and moisture, especially after a wet ride. A dry chain is not only noisy and inefficient, but is also far more likely to fail when you least expect it, causing costly damages that would’ve been easily prevented by some chain lube and cleaner.
How Often to Lube a Motorcycle Chain
So, how often should you lube a motorcycle chain? A general rule of thumb is to lubricate your chain every 300 to 600 miles, or after every wet ride. If you’re riding in the kind of rainy conditions unfortunately common here in the UK, you might need to do it fairly frequently.
Some bikers ask, “Should I lube my bike chain every ride?” The answer depends on the riding conditions. In wet or off-road scenarios, yes, do it after every ride. For dry, clean rides, every few trips should suffice. Always refer to your manufacturer’s guidelines, but regular inspection is key. Look for signs like squeaking, rust or a visibly dry chain that suggest the chain needs lubricant.
How to Lube a Motorcycle Chain – A Step-by-Step Guide
Tools You Need:
- Chain lube spray
- Chain cleaner or degreaser
- Chain brush or grunge brush
- Cloths or rags
- Paddock stand or a centre motorcycle stand
Step 1: Clean the Chain
Start by performing a thorough chain clean. Use a chain-specific degreaser and a chain brush to remove grime, old lube and factory grease. A clean chain allows the new lubricant to bond properly and not just sit on a layer of dirt.
The chain clean should be done with light pressure to avoid damaging the o ring. Rotate the rear wheel or back wheel slowly to expose the whole chain, using a paddock stand to make the job safer and easier.
Step 2: Apply the Lube
After allowing the chain to dry completely naturally or using a towel, it’s time to apply lube. Use your chain lube spray on the bottom run of the chain, ideally on the inside so centrifugal force helps distribute it while riding. A quick spin of the rear tire lets you reach the whole chain evenly.
Be sure to coat the rollers and between the rings for maximum protection. Avoid getting lube on your rear tyre, as it can be a hazard. Let the lubricant sit for at least 30 minutes, but ideally longer or even overnight, before riding.
Step 3: Wipe Off Excess Lube
Once the lube has settled, wipe away any excess lube with a cloth or rag. Leaving too much behind can attract dirt and form a sticky residue over time.
What Type of Chain Lube Should You Use?
Different types of lubricant suit different riding styles and climates:
- Dry lube or dry chain lube is ideal for hot, dry weather – it doesn’t fling but may require more frequent applications.
- Wet lube works better in rainy or dirty conditions and sticks longer.
- Avoid regular gear oil unless specified – it’s messy and can fling excessively.
Avoid using WD-40 as your primary chain lubricant. It may displace water but lacks the long-term protective qualities of dedicated chain lube. (Though WD-40 does offer a dedicated chain product.)
For riders who don’t want to switch between wet and dry lubes depending on the forecast, an all-weather chain lube can be a great all-round option. It offers solid performance in both dry and wet conditions, making it ideal for the UK’s unpredictable climate. There’s also off-road chain lube, which is specially formulated to deal with the extra mud, dirt and debris that comes with trail riding or motocross. This is a better choice for bikes like enduro, trial, or quadbikes where the chain is exposed to harsher elements. You can find examples of both all-weather and off-road chain lube in our online store.
FAQs
How do I know if my motorcycle chain needs lube?
- Listen for squeaking or grinding noises
- Look for a dry chain or reddish signs of rust
- Check for stiffness, tight spots or lack of shine
How do I know if my bike chain has enough lube?
The whole chain should have a light, even coat with no visible dry patches
How long does lube last on a chain?
Typically 300-600 miles depending on conditions
Is it okay to use WD-40 on a bike chain?
Only if it’s their specific chain lube product. Standard WD-40 is more of a cleaner/displacer than a true lubricant
Can I use gear oil instead of chain lube?
Technically yes, but it’s not recommended for modern sealed chains like an o ring chain or x rings due to mess and poor adhesion
Final Tips for a Well-Oiled Ride
- Always inspect your drive chains for damage or wear
- Replace chains that show rust, broken rollers or worn sprockets
- Avoid over-lubing and wipe away any excess lube
- Use a paddock stand to simplify your maintenance routine
- Take a quick spin after the lube has first set to spread the product evenly
If you’re serious about your bike’s health, keeping your motorcycle chain clean and properly lubricated is one of the simplest but most impactful habits you can develop. Want to stock up on the right gear? Check out our selection of chain lube, brushes and cleaning kits in the BDLA Motorbikes online store.
