When should I replace my chain and sprockets?
It’s rare, but chains can fail and inflict other damage if not cared for correctly. This guide aims to help you to know when to replace your motorcycle’s chain and sprockets by advising the factors your should look for when assessing the condition and amount of wear.
How to check for chain and sprocket wear
To make this easy and in order to get the most accurate results, we recommend using a centre stand or a paddock stand for this exercise.
1) Pulled out!
Check the adjusters on your swingarms. If you have maxed out the available adjustments (i.e. pulled the wheel back as far as possible), you should replace both your chain and sprockets.
2) Stretched out
By pulling on the chain at the very rear of the sprocket, the sprocket teeth must stay inside of the chain links. If they don’t and a clear gap can be seen between the two, tension your chain using a Chain Monkey and check the other indicators listed here.
The image above illustrates where to pull the chain.
3) Tight spots
From where you would usually tension the chain, turn the wheel and check in several spots around the whole length for tight spots. If you find excessive tight areas where the tension differs significantly, you have stiff links. A thorough clean and re-lubrication can help. Check our best practice guide ‘How to clean a motorcycle chain’.
4) Sharp teeth
Carefully examine your sprocket’s teeth the whole way around. Below is an example of what to look out for. If yours looks like the far right example, it’s definitely time to replace. The same applies if any teeth are damaged broken. Bear in mind that alloy sprockets will wear faster than those made of steel.
5) The good book
Consult your motorcycle’s manual to find out when you chain and sprockets are due to be replaced. Of course, every rider is different so take this information with a pinch of salt and consider the other factors above. Lots of track days? In terms of miles on the bike, you are bound to need to replace them much sooner than a smooth-riding daily commuter.
What should I replace?
Being experts in chain care, we advise replacing both the chain and sprockets at the same time to ensure both peace of mind and optimum performance delivery. It’s true that you don’t need to always replace them at the same time, however in our experience, it’s best to keep it simple and consistent.
My chain and sprocket might just make it around my next tour, what should I do?
Replace them! Trust me, it’s worth paying the extra to get it done now rather than looking for a garage abroad where you have little control over the price or their booking in schedule. It can also consume a whole day better spent on the mountain passes!
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