With proper maintenance, motorcycle chains can last up to 20,000 miles, but at some point it will need to be replaced. Changing a motorcycle chain might seem like a simple task, but it can be an involved process. If you’re up to the challenge, you can tackle the replacement at home!
Gather the Tools
Before you jump into the project, you’ll need to gather the proper tools and equipment. Refer to the owner’s manual to determine your motorcycle’s specifications, and then find the following:
- New chain
- New front and rear sprockets
- Caliper for measuring
- Chain breaker
- Riveter tool set
You will need to replace the sprockets during this process to increase the lifespan of the chain’s rollers. If you don’t replace them at the same time, you may notice uneven and accelerated wear.
Begin Disassembly
Once you’ve gathered the tools, you will need to jack the rear wheel and begin removing the drive chain. You will need to lock the front sprocket in place in order to loosen the bolts. With a breaker bar, you can remove the bolts first and then proceed to remove the chain.
Once these steps are complete, you will need to remove the wheel in order to replace the sprockets. You should utilize this time to clean up hard-to-reach areas you normally can’t clean while the bike is intact!
Installation of Chain
Now that the area is disassembled and cleaned up, you can begin the installation of the new chain and sprockets. Start by fitting the front sprocket to the engine and then add the rear sprocket to the wheel. String the new chain from the rear of the sprocket to the front one. It can be helpful to use the lettering on the chain to position it in the correct orientation.
As the chain bridges the sprockets, you can now pull the chain around and have the two ends meet at the rear. The rear sprocket teeth will help you install the master link. You will have new O-rings along with the new chain, which will need to be lubricated and connected to the master link.
With the o-rings in place on each end of the chain, you will now install the pins and insert the side plate. Don’t press the side plate too far! You want there to be flexibility evenly distributed between the master link and the rest of the chain links.
Verify the master link width and proceed with riveting the pins against the side plate. This will take a little bit of brute strength, but once it’s in place, you can use the caliper to complete the measurements. When the pins are properly staked, the installation will be complete!
There is nothing more satisfying than completing a project on your motorcycle! Our team at Honda Parts Direct would love for you to shop our online selection of parts. We ship internationally and offer local pickup in Palestine, TX.