What kind of oil is used to lubricate motorcycle chains?
2 Answers
Motorcycle chains are lubricated with engine oil, which is the lubricating oil used in engines, composed of base oil and additives. Engine oil serves to lubricate and reduce friction, assist in cooling, seal against leaks, prevent rust and corrosion, and provide shock absorption for the engine. The base oil is the main component of lubricating oil, determining its fundamental properties, while additives compensate for and improve the shortcomings of the base oil, imparting new characteristics, making them an essential part of lubricating oil. The motorcycle chain is a component of a motorcycle, categorized by structural form into: 1. Motorcycle sleeve chains; 2. Motorcycle roller chains; 3. Motorcycle sealing ring chains; 4. Silent chains (toothed chains).
I've been riding motorcycles for over a decade, and chain maintenance is absolutely not something to take lightly. The chain is exposed to the elements, making it prone to rust and wear from wind and rain, so lubrication is key. Specialized chain lubricants like chain wax or spray oil are best because they resist fling-off, repel dust, and withstand high temperatures, all of which extend the chain's lifespan. Never use engine oil or WD-40—engine oil is too thin and will fling off, dirtying your wheels, while WD-40 is a cleaner that actually strips away grease. I clean my chain every 500 kilometers, wiping off dirt with a cloth, then evenly applying chain oil to ensure every link is covered. This keeps the chain running smoothly and quietly, reducing fuel consumption and the risk of breakage. A dry chain will creak, and if it snaps at high speed, it can easily cause an accident. Maintenance frequency depends on road conditions: once a month for city riding, more often for off-road. Using good chain oil is a cost-effective and safe choice.