How to Handle Chain Problems or Engine Seizure While Riding a Motorcycle

If your drive chain slips or breaks or your engine seizes while you're on your bike, your rear wheel could lock and send you into a skid. Proper maintenance reduces the risk of this happening, but you should know what to do in case you encounter problems on the road.

Difficulty: Moderately challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Motorcycle Gloves
• Motorcycle Jacket
• Motorcycle Pants
• Motorcycle Owner's Manual
• Motorcycle Insurance
• Eye Protection For Motorcycle Riders
• Federally Approved Motorcycle Helmets
• Cellular Phones

1. Pull off the road if your chain slips while you're trying to speed up quickly or ride uphill. Check the chain and tighten it if that's the problem.

2. Replace the chain or sprockets before you ride again if the trouble is a worn or stretched chain or worn or bent sprockets.

3. Notice an instant loss of power if your chain breaks. Close the throttle and slowly brake to a stop.

4. Be aware that if your engine locks or freezes, it usually means you're low on oil. The first sign may be a loss in performance or a change in the sound the engine makes.

5. Squeeze the clutch lever, pull off the road and check the oil. Add oil as soon as possible if you need it, or the engine will seize.

Tips & Warnings

• Engine seizure has the same results as a locked rear wheel. Allow your engine to cool off and add oil if necessary before restarting.
• Don't forget: whenever the engine's moving parts can't move smoothly against each other, the engine overheats.
• Motorcycling is an inherently dangerous activity that can result in serious injury or death. We recommend that you seek proper training and equipment before attempting this activity.