Can You Put Snow Chains On A Motorcycle

Yes, you can put snow chains on a motorcycle, but it is generally recommended only for emergency situations on packed snow or ice. Before installation, you must ensure your bike has at least 15mm (0.6 inches) of clearance between the tire and the swingarm to prevent mechanical damage. For most street bikes, universal nylon zip-tie chains are the safest option, as they fit tighter spaces better than steel links. Always keep speeds under 30 mph (50 km/h) and avoid dry asphalt.

The Importance Of Tire Clearance

The most common reason for the failure of riders to install snow chains is simply lack of physical space. Motorcycles—especially sports cars and street cars—are different from cars in that they are designed with very tight tolerances.

15mm Principle: You have to have at least 15mm clear space. This distance measures the gap between the widest part of the rear tire and the rear rocker arm, chain guard or brake torsion bar.

The Consequences of Ignoring the Gap: If you ignore the gap and force the installation, the rotating snow chain will become a high-speed saw. I’ve seen snow chains rip off brake tubing, break plastic chain guards, and even directly grind off the metal on the rear rocker arm. In the worst case, once the chain is stuck on the rear rocker arm, the rear wheel will lock up instantly. At this time, you basically fly out with the car.

The Risk of the Front Fender: Although everyone knows the power of the rear wheel grip tube, the front wheel grip tube is the direction. The front fenders are usually tightly wrapped around the tires, with no room for snow chains at all. If you can’t find the 15mm gap under the front fender, don’t force it. Losing power and stopping, losing the ability to steer and you’re left to chance.

Universal Nylon Tie Vs. Steel Chain

The type of chain you choose directly determines whether you can get out of trouble safely or have to call a trailer to repair a damaged motorcycle.

Universal Nylon Zip-Ties: This is widely considered to be the safest option for modern street motorcycles. They work a bit like heavy-duty cable ties with textured “cleats.”

• Low-profile design: They are thin and can pass through narrow gaps where traditional steel chains will definitely get stuck.
• Protect the wheel: Steel clips can easily scratch the alloy wheel, but nylon ties are usually friendly to the rim and have no lethality.
• Adjustability: They are called “universal” because they can be tightened to fit various tire widths. Throw a few in the side bag as an emergency tool, very practical.

Steel Link Chains: Traditional “trapezoidal” steel chains are very bulky. On a motorcycle, centrifugal force causes the steel ring to expand outward as the wheel rotates. Not only does this “whiplash effect” require much more than 15mm clearance, but it is hardly suitable for any car other than those specific dual-sport or expedition models with huge space.

Speed Limits And Road Conditions

Riding a motorcycle with snow chains on it feels completely different from usual. Snow chains have fundamentally changed the way tires interact with the road.

Strict Speed Limit (below 30 mph / 50 km/h): Snow chains will destroy the dynamic balance of the wheels. Once the speed exceeds 30 miles, the violent vibration will not only make the body unstable, but may also cause the snow chain to disintegrate. More importantly, the centrifugal force brought about by the high speed will throw the chain more open and directly beat the body parts.

Avoid Dry Asphalt Roads: This is not only for the life of the chain, but also for your safety.

• Vibration and breakage: On compacted snow or ice, the chain will be embedded in the ground to provide grip. But on dry asphalt roads, they are hard-pressed against the road, and you will feel severe bumps. This impact can shatter the plastic nails of nylon chains or break steel chains in minutes.
• Reduced grip: On dry ground, snow chains reduce the contact area between the tire and the ground. Metal or hard plastic slides quickly on the asphalt, which increases the braking distance and makes cornering extremely dangerous.

Author:Alex

I’m a seasoned rider and motorcycle mechanic who refuses to let winter park my bike. With years of experience tackling icy mountain passes, I specialize in practical safety gear and emergency traction solutions to help fellow riders get home safely. I focus on technical precision—like tire clearance and load limits—to ensure your ride remains damage-free.