Noises and clicking during a ride can drive you crazy. These noises can also signal an underlying problem to a larger mechanical issue that may be affecting the performance of your motorcycle. To solve the problem and stay sane, here is an article that will explain why your motorcycle chain makes noise.
Motorcycle chains - General information
On the market, there are a whole bunch of motorcycle chains that meet specific needs. So, before you get started, we advise you to take a look at our complete guide on the subject.
A motorcycle chain that makes noise because of a faulty derailleur
The chain seems to want to move up or down from your cassette when you accelerate in certain gears; even if you are not trying to change gears.
solution: Most modern motorcycles have adjusters on the cables to adjust the tension. If the chain seems to want to fall on a smaller sprocket, turn the adjuster a quarter turn at a time clockwise until the problem is resolved. And if the chain jumps onto a larger sprocket, turn the barrel adjuster a quarter turn at a time counterclockwise. If your problem persists after making a full revolution of the barrel adjuster, the derailleur hanger may be bent and you may need a new derailleur.
A motorcycle chain that makes noise because of a pneumatic chain
If the noise occurs when your motorcycle is just started, your chain is probably dirty and grimy, especially if you haven't oiled or cleaned it recently.
solution: Use a degreaser and an old toothbrush to clean your chain. Once the dirt is removed, apply a drop of chain lubricant to each link. Remove excess lubricant with an old rag.
A motorcycle chain that makes noise because of a loose motorcycle box
A thudding noise on the lower part of the motorcycle; which only occurs when you accelerate, can come from the chain.
solution: If it is not a loose chain, there is high chances that the box of your motorcycle is loose. To tighten it, you need to remove the cranks. If you have tools, you can make the necessary repair by tightening the box cups or adjusting the bearings. For less experienced home mechanics or if you don't have the necessary tools; you may need to go to your local motorcycle store.
A motorcycle chain that makes noise because of a loose chain screw
If you have a squeak in the same area as your chain and are sure that a dirty or worn chain is not the cause, a loose chain screw may be the culprit.
solution: Check each of your chain screws and see if any of them have come loose. Tighten them up to see if that fixes the problem. If the problem persists, it may be a problem with your pedal. If so, try applying a few drops of lubricant to the pedal axle.
Chain screw available on Amazon
Brake pads worn
When a noise comes from the chain of your motorcycle and your wheels are properly aligned; this can be caused by dirty or worn brake pads vibrating against the chain.
solution: Clean the rim's braking surface. Then replace your brake pads if they are worn and tilt them towards the rim. If the pads are just dirty; remove grime with rubbing alcohol or other solvents designed to clean motorcycle brakes. Once clean, roughen the pads with sandpaper.
Brake pads available on Amazon
Too many threads
A constant clicking or clacking in the front of your motorcycle can be caused by cables rubbing against the chain. This is often due to a poor initial setup where excess wire was left in the front of the motorcycle. During travel, the cables may click against each other or against the frame. This can also happen with internal cable routing, in which case your clicking noise may be even louder.
Solution: If you don't feel comfortable replacing and rerouting your brake and shift cables, take your motorcycle to your local motorcycle store and report the problem to them.
Our recommended products for a motorcycle chain that makes noise:
To conclude, here are some recommended products on Amazon:
