| While taking care of a motocross chain is one of | | | | inconsistent power delivery, excessive wear of |
| the most basic forms of motocross maintenance, | | | | the chain and of course excessive wear of both |
| it is also one that is often neglected by most | | | | front and rear sprockets. |
| riders. Many riders, whether they are bordering on | | | | - Not adjusting and cleaning your chain correctly is |
| semi-pro or are just starting out should always | | | | essential just like every other form of Motocross |
| ensure that their motocross chain is regularly kept | | | | Maintenance. If it is not conducted on a regular |
| in tip top shape. This doesn't just mean cleaning, | | | | basis, your chain will either disintegrate, or snap! |
| but also means adjusting the chain, as well as | | | | Right, so back to basics now! |
| making sure both front and rear sprockets are in | | | | Motocross maintenance of your chain is essential |
| A1 condition at all times. Despite this fact, most | | | | and there are three fundamental parts that |
| riders choose to ignore manufacturer's guidelines | | | | ensure your chain is in tip top shape; cleaning, |
| and skip or cut corners when doing their routine | | | | lubricating and adjusting. |
| motocross maintenance. | | | | Cleaning - As suggested, remove the chain from |
| Neglecting motocross maintenance and your chain | | | | your bike first and get stuck in, ensure all dirt and |
| in particular can have disastrous effects on your | | | | dust particles are removed before drying off with |
| bike and your wallet. | | | | cloths and de-watering agents such as WD40. |
| A few tips: | | | | WD40 and similar products are essential for |
| - Ensure your chain is cleaned the best of your | | | | motocross maintenance, they ensure that metal |
| ability every single time you ride. Removing your | | | | parts are free from water particles and |
| chain from your bike is the best way to ensure | | | | therefore, rust! |
| that you are cleaning your chain effectively. Many | | | | Lubricating - Once clean and dry, ensure that your |
| motoring outlets will supply specialist brushes | | | | chain is correctly lubricated, using professional |
| which are perfect for getting into the nooks and | | | | motocross maintenance lubricating agents. |
| crannies', ensuring this part of motorcross | | | | Adjusting - Perhaps one of the most important |
| maintenance is competed correctly. | | | | parts of the process is ensuring that your chain is |
| - There are hundreds of specialist cleaners that | | | | correctly lubricated. In general, most |
| can be used, but ensure that once clean, your | | | | manufacturers suggest that there is a 'play' of |
| chain is never left to dry off on its own accord. | | | | 15-20mm when the swing arm is sitting directly |
| Used cloths followed by a de-watering fluid such | | | | horizontal to the floor. Remember that this |
| as WD40 to ensure that all water particles are | | | | measurement is when the bike is standing freely |
| removed from your chain. If left to dry on its | | | | rather than on a stand. |
| own, your chain will quickly rust and will be no | | | | Remember; motocross maintenance is essential, |
| better than junk, your time spent on motocross | | | | so make sure you complete the procedures |
| maintenance will be wasted! | | | | suggested in my articles regularly and correctly. |
| - Not adjusting your chain correctly will result in | | | | |