Chain lube frequency?

[Scoobynut_imp]

There's some argument about it, but I've used WD40 sprayed liberally on the chain of my dual sport bikes to clean them. One seemingly well-informed opinion I read said that so long as the O-rings are intact, the WD40 won't harm them. If they're not intact, well, you have larger problems than what kind of cleaning agent you're using. I've also read about some daring types who use only WD40 on their chains and get normal to better than average wear from them. My opinion is that these modern chains are so much better than the old chains that even abject neglect won't harm them too much.

I spray mine with the WD40, let the bulk of it drip off via gravity, then dry the rest of it with compressed air. Then go for a ride and apply lube. I will only use the WD40 method very occasionally on a road bike like the CB1100.

Bottom line is I don't get too worked up about the cleanliness of my chain, but if I get a lot of build-up on it, then I will take the time to clean it, but am not too interested in spending too much time on it. YMMV.