What Causes the Clicking Sound in a Motorcycle Chain?
2 Answers
Motorcycle chain noise occurs due to poor alignment between the chain and the sprocket, where the chain pitch may be larger than the sprocket tooth pitch. Poor alignment between chain and sprocket: When the chain and sprocket are not properly aligned, the chain may produce abnormal noises during riding. This situation requires adjustment, and the entire chain and sprocket set may need replacement. This task should be handled by professionals, though you can perform an initial inspection yourself. Attempting DIY repairs might lead to more severe malfunctions. Insufficient lubrication of the motorcycle chain: This is the first area to check when you notice chain noise during daily riding. If insufficient lubrication is identified, adding lubricating oil can resolve the issue, and this is something you can do yourself. To maintain an optimal working environment for the motorcycle chain, it's essential to regularly apply chain oil—typically every 300 kilometers—to allow the chain a recovery period. Chain jamming at a certain point: When the chain jams, it will inevitably produce abnormal noises during riding. Riders should promptly inspect and clean the chain to avoid the risk of it coming off while riding.
I have over ten years of experience riding motorcycles. The most common cause of a rattling chain is that it's too loose, with improper tension adjustment, causing it to wobble and make noise while riding. Lack of lubrication is also a frequent issue; when the lubricant dries up, increased friction makes the chain rattle loudly. Additionally, severe wear on the chain itself, especially if the sprockets are worn out, can lead to constant rattling due to poor fit. When dealing with this, I first check the tension by pushing the middle of the chain to see if the gap meets the standard—if it's too loose, I tighten it immediately. If the wear is too deep, it's best to replace the parts. Regular cleaning and lubrication of the chain can prevent issues and extend its lifespan. A problematic chain isn't just noisy—it could also come off, which is very dangerous, so always inspect it before long trips.