SHOULD YOU CLEAN YOUR CHAIN??? IF SO WHAT IS THE BEST WAY TO DO SO???

 

Yes you need to clean it. Dirt and grime causes damage to the o-rings.

WD-40 is good, but it leaves a residue on the chain. In my experience, the lube doesn't stick very well then. Chain Clean 611 from Motorex is the best stuff I've used. No residue left on the chain. I will use WD-40 first, then use the 611 to clean it off, if the chain is really bad.

There are a couple of ways I clean my chain. If it's not too bad, I spray the 611 on it and on a rag, then wipe off. It's best to do this when the chain is hot. Easier for the gunk to come off. Like I said above, if the chain is in bad shape, spray some WD-40 on heavy, let it sit a minute, use a grunge brush, then wipe off with rag sprayed with WD-40. Then wipe it down again with the 611.

After it is cleaned, let it evaporate, then apply the fresh lube. There are plenty to choose from. Maxima Chain Wax is good. I like Bel-Ray Super Clean chain lube or Chain Lube 622 from Motorex.

Take good care of your chain. If you do, it can last a long time. My ZRX have over 68k miles on it, and I'm only on my 3rd set of chain and sprockets. I got 34k from the stocker and 32k from the 2nd. I also don't do burn outs or wheelies, and I check the adjustment weekly.

 

KEVYZ GREAT ANSWER...THANK YOU I BOUGHT MY BIKE USED, I DONT THINK THE GUY TOOK VERY GOOD CARE OF IT, I TAKE CARE OF MY STUFF, THANKS FOR TAKING THE TIME TO ANSWER MY QUESTION....BIGBREW

 

I like to use an old toothbrush to clean my chain as well.

 

You can get a nice U-shaped bristle brush at most cycle stores relatively cheap that make sure you get at least 3 sides of the chain cleaned. I clean and lube the chain just about every 600 miles just like the manual says. I might seem obvious, but put it up on its center-stand so you can movethe chainand the tires canspin arround when you clean and lube it. That's nottoo tough once you get the hang of it. My Grandmother could probably actually get my bike up on its center standand she's 98 years old. It really doesn't take much muscle ifyou learn how to doit right.

 

Here is an excellent write up from our DIY section.

https://www.kawasakiforums.com/m_11072/tm.htm