Motorcycle Chain Lubricant Spray: What to Do After Riding in the Rain

Riding a motorcycle in the rain can leave more than just water on the road and your bike. Chain and sprockets can accumulate moisture, mud and road debris which can cause problems in lubrication and cause corrosion if not cleaned up. That’s why it’s important to take care of the chain following a wet ride. Maintenance after the rain includes spraying the chain with motorcycle chain lubrication spray to ensure that the chain remains lubricated and prevents excess wear.

There are a number of easy-to-perform steps that can make chain maintenance easier and more effective after riding in wet conditions.

Clean Away Dirt and Moisture

If the components of the chain and the motorcycle are warm, let it cool down first. Check the chain for dirt, mud and other debris that may have been collected on the ride.

Wipe off the chain using a clean cloth to make sure that it is free of moisture, since too much moisture causes rusting and corrosion.

Chain Condition Check

Inspect the condition of the chain before applying the chain lubricant. Look out for rust, broken chain links, stiffening, and other forms of wear.

Look to see if the chain is too dry. When a chain has been dried out due to exposure to rain, it may need attention soon rather than at the normal dry-weather riding time.

If the damage and/or movement is significant, the lubrication may not be sufficient to solve the problem and professional inspection may be warranted.

Apply Lubrication Correctly

After the chain is dry and reasonably clean, spray the chain with a lubrication spray designed for motorcycles following the instructions on the spray. Slowly hand-rotating the rear wheel, apply it evenly to the chain.

Make sure that the lubricant is applied to the moving surfaces of the chain and not onto the tyres, brake parts or other surrounding parts. Be careful not to use too much lubricant as it will draw in dust and road dirt.

Let the lubricant rest for the specified time prior to riding.

Don’t wait too long!

It’s not necessary to repeat the same schedule after each dry weather ride. Wet rides, however, require extra care as the rain can wash away all the existing lubricant and moisture can be left around the chain.

Routine lubrication and chain inspection can be performed after a rainstorm to avoid small maintenance problems from turning into big ones.

After heavy rains, a simple routine to clear up the mess

When you have ridden in the rain, follow these simple steps:

• Remove dirt and mud from chain.
• Thoroughly dry the chain.
• Inspect for rust, stiff or broken links.
• Use an appropriate motorcycle chain lubricant spray.
• Drain off any excess lubricant from adjacent areas.
• Don’t ride until the oil has settled.

Conclusion

Chain care doesn’t have to be difficult. Taking care of the chain following a wet ride and applying the correct motorcycle chain lubrication spray can help to keep the chain operating smoothly and to prolong the life of the component. Consistency is the important part: clean, inspect, dry and lubricate whenever it is needed due to riding conditions.