Summary List
Our Methodology
I have used each of these lubricants over the course of a couple years in off- and on-road environments across California. The motorcycle used is a 2014 Triumph Tiger 800 XC with a 525 DID X-ring chain. The chain was inspected every 1,000 miles for wear and corrosion. The products were applied every 400 to 600 miles in rotation over the course of 6,000 miles.
The lubricants were selected based on my access to each of them and on the recommendations of colleagues, friends, fellow riders in the motorcycle industry. Each of these brands are dedicated to the research and development of high-quality lubricants specific to the maintenance of motorcycles. Most importantly, each was selected because it was designed to be used on O-ring and X-ring chains.
The tested lubes are by no means the only good products out there. Ultimately, it comes down doing your research, and checking out this list of great lubricants goes a long way in that respect.
Best Motorcycle Chain Lube Reviews & Recommendations
Specs
- Size: 13.5 ounces
- Type: Liquid
- On or Off-Road: Both
Pros
- Adheres to chain under high load
- Protects against corrosion
- Above average protection when exposed to water
- Resists dirt and grime buildup
Cons
- Premium price point
- White film residue
Bel-Ray Super Clean comes in a 13.6-ounce aerosol container and is one of the pricer chain lubricants on the market. Super Clean utilizes the latest innovations in chain lubricant technologies for street, off-road or racing.
Bel-Ray’s motorcycle chain lube utilizes a high-vapor-pressure solvent that allows the lubricating chemicals to penetrate into the load-carrying areas of the chain, such as rollers, bushings, and plates. It creates a coating similar to chain wax but is more effective and less prone to centrifugal forces. The film dries white and can be seen over the course of its application, so when it fades the rider knows it’s time to clean and lubricate the chain again.
Specs
- Size: 13.5 ounces
- Type: Liquid
- On or Off-Road: Both
Pros
- Suitable for standard, O, X and Z-Ring chains
- Suitable for long distance all weather on/off-road riding
- Detachable nozzle straw allows for pinpoint application
- Contains UV over spray dye
Cons
- Sticky and attracts dirt and grime in off-road applications
Muc-Off All-Weather Chain lube features a unique water-repellent, ceramic, non-fling formula that penetrates deep into the chain link. It also includes a dye that becomes visible under UV light. This allows the applicant to check chain coverage and also wipe away overspray.
Muc-Off deserves credit for its corrosion protection, lubrication, and adherence in a multitude of climates and riding conditions. The integrated UV dye is a great additional feature for riders with colored-themed chains who do not wish to leave a film on the chain like Bel-Ray’s Super Clean but retains the means to check coverage with a UV lamp.
Specs
- Size: 9.8 ounces