The chain runs around a front and back sprocket. The front sprocket is the small one and the back one the bigger. For the sake of this article I will assume you've bought a good quality chain which matches the power of your bike (check the manufacturer to be sure). When the chain runs, listen! Do you hear the chain 'clappering' while driving? This might indicate that not all links are smooth. Also look whether the chain is running smoothly and is wearing evenly all over.
Like I said before, chains are all about maintenance. So, how to check and maintain it? Grab the chain on the back sprocket about half way, then pull in towards the back of the sprocket. If the chain is so loose that you can see the teeth of the sprocket you'll know it's getting older. Then check half way on the bottom part of the chain there shouldn't be more than 1 inch / 2.5 cm of play there (off road bikes a little more).
Chains on smaller engines can be replaced with a split link, which is easy to do yourself. However, a high engine power needs strong motorcycle chains, you'll need a soft link chain replacement (which needs an expensive tool to do the trick). Often it is wise to change sprockets and chains at the same time. Old sprockets will wear out your new expensive chain 3 times as fast.
Lubricate the motorcycle chain after a ride when the chain is still hot. First clean dirt from the chain. Then spray / wipe from the inside onto the chain (give special attention to the shackles where on some chains o-rings sit). Let it sit for a while then clean excessive grease. Remember o-chains and regular chains need different lubrication.
Chain maintenance is one of the most frequent things you'll be doing on your motorcycle - having a bike with a center stand is ideal for working on the chainCheck your chain tension half way between the front and back sprocket, about 1 inch / 2,5 cm of play is normal.Roll the chain along the sprockets when in a neutral position - if the chain has long tight spots (the links are sticking) your chain might need to be replaced.Pull the chain off the back sprocket, if you can pull it one half of one of the teeth - you're up for a replacement. Also check for nice sharp sprocket teeth.When tightening a chain, recheck the chain play in the new position you've placed the bike - e.g. on the center stand.Most motorcycles use o-ring chains versus the conventional chains (o-ring chains last longer) however check that your lubrication doesn't eat away at these o-rings.Clean the chain before lubing the chain again - apply lubrication at the inside of the chain while the chain is still hot - clean off excessive lube.Chains and sprockets need to be changed together - it isn't cheap but with good maintenance it will last you a long time.Refer to your owner manual on how to adjust your chain tension - but make sure to align the tire in the correct way.Bad alignment of sprockets / chains will wear out any chain in a short time - clean the sprockets and chain and check for irregular wear marks.Chains can be joined together by a spring clip (easy removable) or a master link (creates an endless chain and needs special tools to remove).If your chain has a spring clip (for safety reasons) make sure the closed end is pointing towards the travel direction of the bike / chain.You can also get x-ring chains, which have the same characteristics as an o-ring chain but with less drag.Watch out for battery acid dripping down on your chain while doing battery maintenance
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