QA

Question: How To Change Motorcycle Chain

Is it hard to change a motorcycle chain?

Add to that one or any combination of neglect, hard usage, mis-adjustment, and/or harsh conditions, and you’ll discover that a chain and sprockets replacement is in order for your bike. Replacing the motorcycle chain and sprockets is a fairly easy task, but there are some pitfalls to watch out for along the way.

How much does it cost to replace a motorcycle chain?

It really depends on the motorcycle you’re working on. Chains can range in price from $20 for a plain chain for a small, lightweight motorcycle to over $200 for something like a quality O-ring chain for a bigger, more powerful bike.

Can you remove a motorcycle chain without breaking it?

cutting the chain isn’t that hard, you can use a grinder or dremel to grind off the top of two pins so that a plate can be popped off then just slide out the link. usually it’s easiest to grind the master link pins. most chains come with a 120 links so you may have to cut it to the desired length anyway.

What tools are needed to change a motorcycle chain?

Changing a chain is a fairly basic job that requires a chain breaker / riveting tool and whatever is needed to remove the rear wheel and sprockets. It’s nice to have a blow torch and a torque wrench on hand for this job, too.

How long does a sprocket last?

It depends on the way you maintain it. If the chain was cleaned and lubed properly for every 400–500 kms, it will last upto 32k kms(it’s my personal experience) and if the maintenance was too poor, the entire set along with both rear and front sprocket will wear off within 15k kms.

What is the life of a motorcycle chain?

But chains wear out over time and need replacing. So, how often should a motorcycle chain be replaced? In general, a properly maintained motorcycle can last 20,000 to 30,000 miles, sometimes more. But, some last as little as 5,000 to 10,000 miles.

How long should bike chain last?

Most mechanics agree that you should replace your chain about every 2,000 to 3,000 miles, depending on your riding style. Many Tour De France riders wear out two or even three chains on their primary bike over the course of the three-week race.

Do you need to change sprockets with chain?

If you determine that your chain is constantly getting stuck and lubrication is not increasing the smoothness of your ride, it’s likely time to get a new chain. However, when you replace your chain, it’s a great idea to replace your sprocket at the same time.

Can you take links out of a motorcycle chain?

Put a chain breaking tool on the chain and push the rivets out – do a bit on each side at a time until the chain ‘breaks’ open. Once you’ve ‘broken’ apart the master link the chain will come apart and you can pull it through and free of the bike.

What does changing the front sprocket on a motorcycle do?

The purpose of changing sprocket sizes is to alter the relationship between engine speed on your tachometer and road speed on your speedometer. Let’s say your motorcycle comes with an 18-tooth sprocket in the front and a 43-tooth sprocket on the rear wheel. Once you have a new ratio in mind, take a look at your bike.

How do I know if I need a new bike chain?

Another ballpark method for checking chain wear is by measuring it with a ruler. Pick a rivet and line it up at the zero mark. Count 24 more rivets and your last rivet should be at the 12″ mark of your ruler. If it is off by more than 1/16″ your chain is stretched to the point of replacement.

How do you check a motorcycle chain?

At the far back end on the rear sprocket, pull the chain away from the teeth parallel to the ground. A new chain will barely move. If you can pull it back to expose half a tooth or more, you need to replace the chain.