Signs the chain needs attention
- A dry chain squeaks or makes a rattling sound, especially when you accelerate.
- Rust or stiff links that do not bend freely.
- The chain is so loose that it slaps against the swing arm, or jumps when you ride over bumps.
- The teeth of the sprocket look hooked or sharp like shark fins instead of rounded.
Basic care
Don't spin the wheel with your hand near the chain while the engine is running, and don't oil the chain while it is moving.
- Switch the engine off and let it cool. Put the bike on its stand so the rear wheel can turn.
- Wipe off mud and old oil with a cloth, then apply chain lubricant on the inside of the chain while turning the wheel by hand. Wipe off the extra so it does not fling onto the tyre or brake.
- Check the slack with the manual's measurement and have it adjusted if it is off. Wrong slack wears both the chain and the sprockets.
When to replace
A stretched chain wears out the sprockets, and worn sprockets wear out a new chain quickly. That is why mechanics usually replace the chain and both sprockets together as a set. Ask the mechanic to show you the worn parts. If a chain breaks while riding it can lock the rear wheel or whip back at your leg, so don't keep riding on a chain that is badly stretched or damaged.