To work at its best, a motorcycle chain's tension must be "just right."

Too loose, and the chain could jump off the sprockets, potentially causing the rider to lose control. Too tight, and the chain will put stress on the sprockets and transmission bearings. It could inhibit rear suspension travel and - in the extreme case - it could snap.

We'll help you strike the perfect balance!

Regularly clean your motorcycle’s chain and it will love you for it.

Getting rid of abrasive materials such as dirt, grit and sand will extend the chain's lifespan. It will run smoother and quieter, too.

What's not to love about that?

The first step to installing a new motorcycle chain is to know when it's time to replace the old one. We have a few easy ways to tell that your old chain is finished.

Then, things get a little more complicated as we get into replacement. But with this handy guide, you'll master the job in short order.

Not all motorcycle chains are the same. There are actually three main types: Standard non-sealed, O-ring and X-ring. Non-sealed chains are easy to spot, but it’s harder to distinguish between an O-ring and an X-ring chain.

Do you know how?

The only thing nicer than a freshly-cleaned chain must surely be, yep, a chain coated in beautiful, abrasive-resistant lube.

It's also one of my favorite sounds in the world - when a lubed chain runs around lubed sprockets. It's like a quiet, slippery "click, click, click." To me, it sounds like saved dollars and cheap insurance.

Lubing your chain has some serious benefits. Here's how to cash in on them:

Motorcycle chains come in all shapes and sizes. After all, variety is the spice of life, right?

Of course, all those different numbers can get confusing. Fear not: our handy buying guide is here to help.