Adjusting the tension on your motorcycle chain is important for a number of reasons. First and foremost, it ensures that your bike is running smoothly and efficiently. A loose chain can cause the bike to vibrate, which can be uncomfortable for the rider and potentially cause damage to the motorcycle. In addition, a loose chain can cause the sprockets and chain to wear out more quickly, which can be costly to repair. On the other hand, a chain that is too tight can also cause problems, such as difficulty shifting gears or damage to the sprockets and chain. Adjusting the tension on your motorcycle chain is a simple task that can help prevent these issues and ensure that your bike is running at its best.
Things you need to tension your chain:
To adjust the tension on your motorcycle chain, you will need a few basic tools. These may include:
A paddock stand: This is a stand that holds your motorcycle off the ground and makes it easier to work on.
A torque wrench: This tool is used to tighten bolts and nuts to a specific torque (or tension) to ensure that they are not too loose or too tight.
Spanners: These are tools used to loosen and tighten bolts and nuts.
A tape measure: This is used to measure the distance between the swing arm and the chain to determine the proper tension.
Chain lubricant: This is used to lubricate the chain and help prevent wear and tear.
How to tension your chain:
Now that you have gathered the necessary tools, you are ready to adjust the tension on your motorcycle chain. Follow these steps to get started:
Set up a flat, clear work area and use a paddock stand to lift the motorcycle off the ground. This will give you easy access to the chain and allow you to work on it comfortably.
Inspect the chain to make sure it is clean and lubricated. If the chain is dirty or dry, use a clean cloth and some chain lubricant to clean and lubricate it.
Refer to the measurement listed on the swing arm (usually in millimeters) to determine the proper tension for your motorcycle chain. This measurement can usually be found in your motorcycle's owner's manual or online.
Use a tape measure to measure the distance between the swing arm and the chain. To get an accurate measurement, take it from a middle point between the front and rear sprockets and rotate the rear wheel to find any tight spots.
Loosen the rear axle nut and lock nut on both sides of the bike. Hold the adjusting nuts while doing this to prevent them from turning.
Adjust the chain tension by turning the adjusting nuts. To make the chain tighter, turn the adjusting nuts clockwise; to make it looser, turn them counterclockwise.
Retighten the rear axle nut and lock nut on both sides of the bike. Use a torque wrench to ensure that they are tightened to the proper torque (as specified in your motorcycle's owner's manual).
Double-check the tension by pushing down on the back of the bike and pulling up on the front. The chain should have some slack, but not too much. If necessary, make any additional adjustments by repeating steps 5-7.
How hard is it really to tension your chain:
Adjusting the tension on your motorcycle chain is a relatively simple task that can be done by most riders with a basic understanding of motorcycle maintenance. It does require a little bit of time and effort, as well as some basic tools, but it is something that can be easily learned and accomplished with some practice.
That being said, it is always a good idea to consult your motorcycle's owner's manual and/or a professional mechanic if you are unsure about any aspect of the process or if you are experiencing any issues with your bike. It is better to be safe than sorry, and making sure that your motorcycle is in good working condition is crucial for your own safety as well as the longevity of your bike.
In conclusion, adjusting the tension on your motorcycle chain is an important part of regular maintenance that can help ensure that your bike is running smoothly and efficiently. It is a relatively simple task that can be accomplished with the right tools and a little bit of know-how. While it may take a little bit of time and effort, the benefits of keeping your motorcycle in good condition are well worth it.
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