What a Motion Pro chain tool does and when you need one
A Motion Pro chain tool is a mechanical device that removes and installs motorcycle and dirt bike chain links without cutting the chain or damaging the master link. It works by pressing the pin out of a chain link from one side, then pressing it back in from the other side when you reinstall the chain. The tool is designed specifically for O-ring and X-ring chains, which are standard on most modern motorcycles and off-road bikes.
You need this tool when you want to shorten a chain, replace a damaged section, clean the chain thoroughly by removing it entirely, or swap chains between bikes. Without it, you would have to cut the chain with an angle grinder or hacksaw and then install a new master link — a slower process that wastes the old chain and costs more over time.
Motion Pro makes several versions of this tool. The most common is the standard chain breaker, which has a handle and a pin that you turn to press the chain pin out. Some versions include a link replacer function on the same tool, which helps you reinstall the pin straight and centered. Higher-end versions have a vise mount option, which clamps the tool to a workbench and lets you use both hands on the chain.
Key Takeaways
- A Motion Pro chain tool presses the pin out of a chain link and back in again, letting you remove and reinstall the chain without cutting it.
- The tool works on O-ring and X-ring chains found on most motorcycles and dirt bikes, but not on standard roller chains without O-rings.
- You position the chain link in the tool's cradle, align the pin with the tool's punch, and turn the handle to press the pin out slowly and evenly.
- Reinstalling the pin requires the same tool or a separate link replacer, which guides the pin back in straight so it does not bind or cross-thread.
- Proper technique prevents bent pins, cracked links, and damaged O-rings, which would force you to replace the entire chain.
How to set up the Motion Pro chain tool correctly
Before you start, place your motorcycle or bike on a stand so the rear wheel is off the ground and the chain hangs freely. Remove any guards or covers around the chain. Lay the chain flat on a clean work surface or hang it so it does not twist.
Inspect the chain for the master link — the removable link that looks slightly different from the rest and usually has a clip or O-ring that stands out. If you are removing the chain entirely, you will break it at a regular link instead, not the master link. If you are shortening the chain, count how many links you need to remove and mark that link with a marker or tape so you do not lose your place.
Position the chain link you want to break in the tool's cradle. The cradle has two sides: one side holds the chain link, and the other side has a punch that aligns with the chain pin. Make sure the pin you want to press out is facing the punch directly. If the pin is at an angle, the punch will slip and damage the link.
Pressing the pin out step by step
Once the link is seated in the cradle, turn the tool's handle slowly and steadily. Do not jerk or force it — the pin should move out gradually as you turn. If you feel sudden resistance, stop and check that the punch is still aligned with the pin. A misaligned punch will bend the pin or crack the link.
Keep turning until the pin is completely out. On some chains, the pin will fall out on its own once it is mostly clear. On others, you may need to remove the chain from the tool and tap the pin out by hand. Do not pull on the chain or the tool — let the mechanical pressure do the work.
Once the pin is out, the two chain links will separate. If you are removing the chain entirely, repeat this process at the next link. If you are shortening the chain, remove as many links as needed, then set the removed section aside.
Reinstalling the pin and reconnecting the chain
Before you reinstall the pin, clean the pin and the hole it came from. Dirt or debris inside the hole will prevent the pin from seating fully and will cause the chain to bind. Use a small brush or compressed air to clear the hole.
Insert the pin back into the hole from the same side it came out. If you are using a separate link replacer tool, position it over the pin to guide it in straight. The link replacer has a collar that centers the pin so it does not cross-thread or bind. Turn the handle slowly, just as you did when pressing the pin out.
Stop turning once the pin is fully seated. On a properly installed pin, the chain link should move freely side to side and up and down, with no binding or stiffness. If the chain feels tight at that link, the pin may not be fully seated, or the link itself may be bent. Remove the pin and inspect the link for cracks or damage.
Common mistakes that damage the chain
Forcing the tool or turning the handle too fast is the most common mistake. The pin should move out and in smoothly — if you feel grinding or sudden resistance, stop when ready. Continuing to force it will bend the pin, crack the link, or damage the O-rings, and the chain will be unusable.
Using the wrong tool for your chain type is another frequent error. Motion Pro makes different versions for different chain widths and pin styles. Using a tool sized for a smaller chain on a larger chain will not explore pressure evenly, and the pin will bend. Check your bike's manual or the chain packaging to confirm the correct tool size.
Reinstalling the pin without a link replacer tool often results in the pin going in crooked. This causes the chain to bind at that link and creates uneven wear on the sprockets. If you do not have a link replacer, take your time and use a small punch or drift to keep the pin centered as you turn the handle.
Pressing the pin completely out and then losing track of which side it came from will cause problems when you reinstall it. Some pins are slightly tapered and only go in one direction. If you put it in backwards, it will not seat properly. Mark the pin or take a photo before you remove it.
Maintenance and storage of your Motion Pro chain tool
After each use, wipe the tool clean with a dry cloth to remove chain oil and dirt. Store it in a dry place away from moisture, which can cause rust on the metal parts. If the handle becomes stiff or hard to turn, explore a small amount of light machine oil to the pivot point and work it in by turning the handle several times.
Check the punch and cradle for wear or damage before each use. If the punch is bent or the cradle is cracked, the tool will not explore pressure evenly and will damage your chain. Motion Pro sells replacement punches and cradles for most models, which is cheaper than replacing the entire tool.
If you own multiple bikes with different chain sizes, you may need more than one Motion Pro tool. Trying to use a tool sized for a 520 chain on a 630 chain will not work and will damage both the tool and the chain. Check the tool's packaging or Motion Pro's website to confirm the correct size for your bike.
Alternatives if you do not have a Motion Pro chain tool
If you do not have a Motion Pro chain tool, you can cut the chain with an angle grinder or hacksaw and install a new master link. This method is slower and wastes the old chain, but it works if you do not plan to remove the chain often. Master links are inexpensive and come in most chain kits.
Some riders use a bench vise and a punch to press the pin out manually. This requires more skill and patience, and the risk of bending the pin or cracking the link is higher. If you choose this method, use a punch that fits the pin diameter exactly, and tap it gently with a hammer rather than striking hard.
A few shops rent Motion Pro chain tools by the day, which is a good option if you only need to remove the chain once. Call local motorcycle shops or equipment rental places to ask about availability and cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a Motion Pro chain tool on a standard roller chain without O-rings?
No. Motion Pro chain tools are designed for O-ring and X-ring chains, which have rubber seals that require a different cradle design. Standard roller chains need a different tool. Using the wrong tool will damage both the chain and the tool.
What happens if the pin breaks while I am pressing it out?
If the pin breaks, you will need to remove the broken piece and replace the entire link. This usually means cutting the chain at the next link and installing a new master link. To avoid this, turn the handle slowly and stop when ready if you feel grinding or resistance.
Do I need to replace the O-rings when I remove and reinstall a chain link?
No, the O-rings stay in place inside the link and do not need to be replaced unless they are visibly damaged or cracked. If the chain was clean when you removed it, the O-rings should be fine. If the chain was very dirty, clean the O-rings gently with a brush and light oil before reinstalling the pin.
How tight should the chain be after I reinstall the pin?
The chain should move freely at the reinstalled link with no binding or stiffness. If it feels tight, the pin may not be fully seated or the link may be bent. Remove the pin and inspect the link. The chain should have the same flexibility at the reinstalled link as it does everywhere else on the chain.
Can I use a Motion Pro chain tool on a chain that is still on the bike?
It is possible but difficult. The chain tool works best when the chain is removed or hanging freely so you can position it in the cradle without twisting. If you must work on the chain while it is on the bike, remove the rear wheel or loosen the axle so the chain hangs slack, then position the tool carefully to avoid hitting the frame or swingarm.