Motorcycle Repair: Chain maintenance, engine paint, chain maintenance

Question
Hello Chris,

I'm a noobie to the MC world, so a basic question I'm afraid ... do you have any good tips on how best to clean my chain? I use Shells chain oil which is quite waxy and builds up to quite a gunge in no time. I'm not keen on using non-ecofriendly chemicals where I can avoid it.

/Derek

Answer
Hi Derek.
 Being an eco-friendly person myself, I try to use envirosafe products whenever possible.  However, there are times when you just can't get any for a particular application.  Most of the chemical cleaners out there that would do the job of removing lubricants from the chain are too harsh for the chain (if, like many, you use an o-ring chain).

I have found, however, that "S-100" does a very good cleaning job and is envirosafe, as is "Simple Green" and "Formula 88".  With Formula 88 you need to be careful as it will remove engine paint if left to sit for more than a couple of minutes.  All three of these with the possible exception of Simple Green, but you have to check) are envirosafe as far as I am aware.

For lubing your chain, there is another product out there called "Chain Wax"  It was recommended to me a few years ago and, whenever I have a chain drive bike, I use that for the chain.  It has proven the best for me.

Ride safe.
FALCON