LubeChain

How Often?

Suzuki recommends cleaning and lubricating your chain every 600 miles, however many users find that this can vary depending on the conditions you ride through. If you ride on unpaved roads or in dusty areas, you may need to clean your chain more frequently.

Simple Cleaning Procedure

Place the bike on the centerstand.
Wipe the chain down with a rag dipped in kerosene or WD40. Work it between the links and try to remove all dirt and old lubricant.
Spray the chain with a new lubricant. Wipe off any excess

Variations

Many GS500 owners prefer to spray Chain Wax on instead of a wet lubricant. They argue that a drier substance attracts less dirt and grime than oil. Check the GS500 forum for more information and detail on the differences between these procedures.

People spread alot of fear about choosing the wrong chain lube. The fact is as long as you do it often, most lubes are suficient. As with everything chain lubes have pro's and con's. Remember, the biggest killer of chains are rust, dirt and friction. Keep the chain as clean as possible and keep a fresh layer of lube on it and you will get good mileage out of your chain. People have had good results with:
- Motor Oil
- Transmission Fluid
- Gear Oils
- WD-40 (keep in mind not to use this on O-Ring chains as the moisture displacement properties of the WD-40 will dry the O-Rings and ruin your chain.)
- Spray on Chain Lubes
- Chain Waxes
- Teflon Lubes
- Grease (including White grease)

Extras

Not a bad time to use the carb drains and remove any crud (rust, water, glop) that has collected in the carb bowls. You're already doing maintenance, and it just takes a few seconds per side.

Also, if you've got thousands of miles on it, you might want to clean around the front sprocket. No good cleaning your chain, if a dirty front sprocket area puts gunk right back on it! See Front Sproket Cover Removal for references on how to do this. It's not difficult.