Oiling chain - where to start

[Fifteen15]

My bike has started rattling on acceleration up to about 30 mph. It's very quiet, I need to take my ear plugs out to hear it properly. I've been advised to oil my chain but since I've only been riding for 3 weeks, I have no idea where to start. Do I need to clean the chain first? If so, what with? Will WD40 work to lube up the chain or will I need some proper oil?

Thanks you very much
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"Pain is weakness leaving the body, and blood makes the grass grow faster...but I'll wear my gear anyway"

[temeluchus]

toothbrush and diesel or paraffin to get the crap off.

You can relube with a chain spray or engine oil.
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Some shite cruiser. Now with guns and FREEDOM!

[Paxovasa]

See the other thread.....
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Suzuki GSF600 K3 (in the fastest colour, black).

[Glenben92]

Good lord don't use WD40.

As above, toothbrush and petrol i'd recommend for cleaning it. Use either proper chain lube in a tub that you massage in or use thick oil. I use 80/90 gear oil and it works nicely for me. I do a lot of all weather riding so the chain is better off getting cleaned more frequently anyway. (lube lasts longer, oil is cheaper and easier but requires more frequent lubing)

You'll start to know when your chain needs a bit attention. Usually it's a weekly / fortnightly thing with me. I ride every day 20 miles round trip at least. Always lube weekly when the weather turns sour.
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57 Huoniao HN125-8 - , 97 Kawasaki GPZ500S -
99 Yamaha FZS 600 -
Mod 2 Passed - 01/10/2010

[Bloggsy]

I have never cleaned a chain I just spray lube on it every 500 miles

[.....]

[HD]

Sure the rattling isn't the chain being loose?

It could be something other than the chain yanno...?
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Rusty '02 Vito Camper + CBR600F3

[Bloggsy]