Maintenance Routine Beginner

Chain Maintenance: Cleaning, Lubrication, and Adjustment

🔧 Estimated time: 20-30 minutes

🔧 Tools Required

• Chain cleaner (O-ring/X-ring safe)
• Chain lubricant
• Soft bristle brush
• Clean rags
• Wrenches for rear axle adjustment
• Caliper or ruler

⚠️ Safety Warnings

! NEVER spin the wheel with the engine running
! Always work with the bike off and in neutral
! Petroleum-based cleaners damage O-ring seals

Difficulty Level Easy

Easy Moderate Hard

Chain Maintenance: Complete Guide

The drive chain is one of the components requiring the most maintenance. A well-maintained chain can last 30,000+ km.

How Often to Maintain the Chain?

Task	Frequency
Visual inspection	Before every ride
Lubrication	Every 500-800 km or after rain
Complete cleaning	Every 1,000-2,000 km
Check tension	Every 1,000 km

Chain Types

Feature	O-Ring	X-Ring
Friction	Moderate	Lower
Durability	20,000-30,000 km	30,000-50,000 km
Price	Economical	Premium

Cleaning the Chain

⚠️ Products You Should NEVER Use

❌ WD-40 (damages O-rings)
❌ Gasoline
❌ Kerosene
❌ Industrial degreasers

Recommended Products

✅ Motul Chain Clean
✅ Maxima Chain Wax Cleaner
✅ DID Chain Cleaner

Lubrication

Types of Lubricant

Type	Ideal For	Pros	Cons
Spray	General use	Easy application	Can get messy
Wax	Street, touring	Clean, lasts longer	Harder to apply
Wet	Off-road, rain	Excellent penetration	Attracts dust

Tension Adjustment

Typical deflection values:

Bike Type	Deflection (Slack)
Sport	25-35 mm
Naked/Street	30-40 mm
Adventure	35-45 mm
Cruiser	30-40 mm

⚠️ Always check your owner’s manual

Wear Inspection

Signs You Need a New Chain

Symptom	Action
Stiff links (kinking)	Replace soon
Excessive rust	Replace
Visibly damaged O-rings	Replace
Stretch > 3%	Replace

Pro Tip: Lubricate after riding, not before. A warm chain absorbs lubricant better.