Under ideal conditions, how often should I clean and lube my chain?

Question

I have a Yamaha V Star 250 with after market sprockets and chain (went from 16t-45t to 17t-42t front and rear respectively). The recommended interval to clean and lube the chain is every 300 miles. I just cleaned it today after 400 miles and it wasn't that dirty; even the chain guard was pretty clean. With that said, I feel that every 300mi seems a bit excessive.

I live in the south bay area, where it has been abnormally dry, and despite it being very hot for the area lately, still comparatively mild in temperatures, and my motorcycle sits in a garage. It is ridden nearly daily as my primary mode of transportation (but I do have a car I use about once a week). Given that these conditions are pretty ideal for a chain-driven motorcycle (to the best of my knowledge) how often should I clean an lube?

Candid Chris · Accepted Answer

Clean the chain as you feel necessary, LUBE the chain every 300 or less miles. (that slippery stuff is GOOD for chains).

Kartik · Answer

Most manuals and service guides will say around 300-500 miles. Even if your chain is clean, it might still need lubrication to last well, especially if it's rained.

Anonymous · Answer

i'd say lube every 3-4 times you ride it and anytime it gets wet ... clean it when it starts to look bad and the sprocket gets grungy is what i do ... using the proper lube is key to keeping it clean for quite awhile ...

Firecracker . · Answer

Every 300 miles or so and every time after riding in heavy rain.
Any other time you feel like it (like bath time).

Richard · Answer

Get a Scott oiler!!

? · Answer

If it looks clean and oily, guess what, dude.

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Under ideal conditions, how often should I clean and lube my chain?

6 Answers