How to Clean Your Motorcycle Chain Properly

If you’re serious about your ride, you know a clean chain isn’t optional — it’s foundational. Grime and worn-out lube can drag down performance, wear out components, and even compromise safety. The good news? With the right tools and routine, it takes just minutes to give your chain the care it deserves.

Why Bother Cleaning Your Chain?

• Improves performance: A clean chain reduces friction and transfers power more efficiently.
• Extends lifespan: Protects O-rings/X-rings and prevents premature wear of the chain and sprockets.
• Saves you money: Less wear = less frequent replacements.

What You Need for a Proper Clean

Before you start, make sure you’ve got everything at hand:

• MotoVerde Chain Cleaner Formulated to cut through heavy grime without damaging seals. Its a big tub so will last you years.
• Chain brush: A must for getting into those hard-to-reach spots.
• Microfibre cloths: For wiping down loosened debris and excess product.
• XCP Chain Lubricant: Designed to cling to the chain for long-lasting protection, even in wet conditions. This is one of the best performing in tests.

Pro tip: Never use petrol — it’s too aggressive and can degrade O-rings over time.

How to Clean It Like a Pro

1. Elevate Your Rear Wheel
A paddock stand lets you rotate the chain freely, ensuring full coverage as you clean.

2. Apply Chain Cleaner
Spray generously across the full length of the chain. Let it sit for a minute to dissolve built-up gunk. There’s a neat applicator here which makes less mess

3. Scrub with Precision
Use your chain brush to clean the top, bottom, and sides of the links. Don’t rush—thoroughness here pays off.

4. Wipe Down
Remove residue and dissolved grime with a clean cloth, rotating the wheel to complete the job.

5. Lubricate
Once the chain is dry, apply your chain lube along the inside run. This ensures even distribution when riding. We recommend XCP for this job as its anti fling, hydroscopic, anticorrosion and mess free.

6. Clean Up Excess
Excess lube attracts dust. Wipe off the outer plates gently to keep your chain clean longer.

How Often Should You Do This?

As a rule of thumb, aim to clean and lube every 300–600 miles, or immediately after wet or dusty rides. Consistency is key—especially if you’re commuting daily or clocking up the miles on twisty country roads.

Final Thought
Your motorcycle chain works hard—repay the favour with top-tier maintenance. Our cleaner and lubricant range has been developed with both performance and longevity in mind. Because when your machine runs smoother, you ride better.