Novice biker - chain cleaning.

[Maddsto]

Hey guys,

Still new to the forums and still pretty new to the biker scene (always been a scooter driver) but got myself a GN125 a few months ago - best thing i've ever done!

Now my chain is looking pretty dirty/gunky so i'm thinkinig its in dire need of a good clean and oil.

My question : what should I use to clean it, i've seen those cleaning 3 brushed tools but havn't got one yet, so would a new toothbrush do the trick? Also what washing fluid is best? And finally, once cleaned, is it just a drop of standard engine oil in the links of the chain to re-lube?

Many thanks,
Matt
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Current : Honda XL Varadero 125
Old : Suzuki GN125, Suzuki GZ125 Marauder

[Sako]

toothbrush, a rag and some paraffin will do fine.

[Taught2BCauti...]

I use a spray de-greaser (like 'Gunk') and an old paintbrush before drying it off with some old rag and re-greasing.

I have a Loobman Chain Oiler fitted, so don't need to do this too often.
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Honda Varadero XL125(V8)
www.TheFutureIsHere.eu

[Maddsto]

Brilliant, cheers for the fast replies

So as for re-greasing, standard engine oil will be fine? I dont want to over or under lube the chain
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Current : Honda XL Varadero 125
Old : Suzuki GN125, Suzuki GZ125 Marauder

[Kingstondavo]

I wouldn't use engine oil, go for some dry chain lube in an aerosol, it's way easier/quicker to put on and won't flick off all over your bike...

I use whatever is cheapest generally, have a can of mucoff at the moment as it was on offer, seems to be pretty good, lasts ages and doesn't throw off the chain as soon as you ride away!
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Current Ride - 2010 Hornet 600

[Maddsto]

[orac]

i wouldn't use any form of degreaser, dont forget the chain is suposed to have grease on and in it. i tooth brush, rag and a can of wd40 is fine, then relube with a quality chain lubricant.

honestly a little extra money spent on doing it right no will save money on buying new chain and sprockets due to increased wear down to bad maintianence
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Current rides - 2016 Triumph Street Triple Rx, 1994 Suzuki Bandit 400 VM, TGB 204 Classic 125cc
"with nothing left to lose, there is everything to gain. It's not the size of the dog in the fight, it's the size of the fight in the dog"

[Maddsto]

I mean, I know the chain is ment to have a good layer of grease on it, however mine is now 1part grease with about 3parts muck and grime.

I'll try the WD40 trick first, as i have all that at home, just need to get a good chain lube.

Ta Orac
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Current : Honda XL Varadero 125
Old : Suzuki GN125, Suzuki GZ125 Marauder

[Rogerborg]