How To Lubricate Dirt Bike Chain

A dirt bike chain is a vital component of your dirt bike.

It is responsible for transferring power from the engine to the rear wheel, so it is important to keep it clean and lubricated.

Last thing you want during your ride is a snapped chain because it wasn’t looked after properly.

Learning how to lubricate dirt bike chain properly will save you hassle and money down the track. Let’s get started.

This article is a part of Dirt Bike Repairs Guide.

Why is it important to lubricate a dirt bike chain?

A dirty or dry chain can cause a number of problems, including:

Reduced performance
Increased wear and tear
Premature failure

Lubricating your dirt bike chain is a relatively simple task, but it is important to do it correctly.

By following the steps in this article, you can keep your chain clean and lubricated, which will help to extend its life and improve its performance.

How often should you lubricate a dirt bike chain?

The frequency with which you should lubricate your dirt bike chain depends on a number of factors, including:

The type of chain you have (O-ring, X-ring, or sealed chain)
The riding conditions (dusty, sandy, wet, etc.)
How often you ride

Generally speaking, you should lubricate your dirt bike chain after every ride.

If you are riding in dusty or sandy conditions, you may need to lubricate your chain more often.

If you are riding in wet conditions, you may want to use a water-resistant chain lube.

Here’s a handy breakdown by chain type:

O-ring chains: These chains are the most common type of dirt bike chain and they require the most frequent lubrication. You should lubricate your O-ring chain after every ride, regardless of the riding conditions.
X-ring chains: These chains are a bit more durable than O-ring chains and they can go longer between lubrications. You should lubricate your X-ring chain after every other ride, or every 2-3 rides, if you are riding in dusty or sandy conditions.

Sealed chains: These chains are the most durable type of dirt bike chain and they require the least frequent lubrication. You should lubricate your sealed chain every 3-4 rides, or every 4-5 rides, if you are riding in dusty or sandy conditions.

Materials Needed

Chain lube: This is the most important material you will need. There are many different types of chain lube available, so it is important to choose one that is designed for dirt bikes.
Chain cleaner: This is used to clean the chain before you apply the lube. It is important to use a chain cleaner that is designed for dirt bikes, as other types of cleaners can damage the chain.

Brush: This is used to scrub the chain during the cleaning process.
Rags: These are used to wipe off the excess lube after you have applied it.
Torque wrench: This is used to adjust the chain tension.

In addition to these materials, you will also need a place to work on your dirt bike.

A clean, well-lit work area is ideal.

Here are some additional tips for lubricating your dirt bike chain:

Wear gloves: This will protect your hands from the chain lube and the chain cleaner.
Work slowly: It is important to work slowly and carefully when lubricating your dirt bike chain. This will help to prevent you from making any mistakes.
Be patient: It takes time to properly lubricate a dirt bike chain. Don’t rush the process.

By following these tips, you can safely and effectively lubricate your dirt bike chain.

Here are some additional materials that you may want to have on hand, but are not essential:

Chain wax: This can be used to provide a protective coating on the chain.

Chain cleaning solvent: This is a more powerful cleaner than chain cleaner, and it can be used to remove heavy dirt and debris from the chain.
Chain tool: This is a tool that is used to remove and install the chain.

If you are not comfortable lubricating your dirt bike chain yourself, you can take it to a qualified mechanic.