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How much play should be in a motorcycle chain?
On average, however, most street motorcycles will need a chain tension of about 20 – 30 mm, or about a half inch to an inch in slack. This means that the chain should be able to move about a half inch to an inch up and about a half inch to an inch down.
Is it bad to ride with a loose chain?
Just be very smooth with the throttle no sharp acceleration or changes in speed and you should be okay*. Have a look at quite how loose it is before going, if its really loose then you’ll need to be more careful when riding but as long as the chain is still one piece then you can ride just being appropriately careful.
How often should you replace your motorcycle chain?
But chains wear out over time and need replacing. So, how often should a motorcycle chain be replaced? In general, a properly maintained motorcycle can last 20,000 to 30,000 miles, sometimes more. But, some last as little as 5,000 to 10,000 miles.
Does a motorcycle chain get tighter when you sit on the bike?
Premium Member. The reason the chain gets more tight, as you sit on the bike, is the distance between the sprockets gets longer as you compress the rear suspension. This makes the chain get tighter. It’s just how it is, on almost every bike.
How long do motorcycle chains last?
But chains wear out over time and need replacing. So, how often should a motorcycle chain be replaced? In general, a properly maintained motorcycle can will last 20,000 to 30,000 miles, sometimes more. But, some last as little as 5,000 to 10,000 miles.
When should I tighten my bike chain?
Check your chain out. It should be tight enough that it only allows you to move it up and down about one inch. If it is sagging or much looser than that, you need to tighten that chain up. Chains often loosen when a bike does not have a derailleur.
Does motorcycle chain affect acceleration?
There’s much more to your bike’s driveline than just delivering power to the rear wheel via a chain and a couple of sprockets; gearing selection can affect acceleration, top speed and even handling. Likewise, a smaller front or larger rear sprocket gives less speed for a given rpm (“shorter” gearing).
What’s the best way to check a motorcycle chain?
Step 4 – Check the chain’s free play by holding the ruler against the chain at the bottom of its loop and then pushing it up and down to measure the movement. Don’t force it, just see how much easy movement there is in the chain. When you are happy you have the correct tension it’s time to check the wheel’s alignment.
Is it good to have a loose chain on a motorcycle?
Of course, a loose, dragging-on-the-floor chain is not too good either. A loose chain will rub on many static parts of the bike such as the swing arm rubber buffer and frame spacers. Besides, with the chain’s ability to saw through anything in its path, the added friction will again raise temperatures.
How much slack should a motorcycle chain have?
That 40-50mm of chain slack (what the Yamaha manual specifies!) is just enough to be sure the chain’s not too tight when the rear sprocket is at max distance from the front one. Too tight puts undue pressure on the countershaft (the one the front sprocket is attached to), which can lead to a host of nasty expensive internal engine problems.
What should the tension be on a motorcycle chain?
in general, 1.5 inches of play is a good starting point but you really need to get a good feel for what proper tension is. you can have 1.5 inches of play in the center but the chain may still be too tight for proper suspension movment. or it can be just the opposite.