chain - play / tightening

[dxtans]

Hello,

After years on a shaftey, I have now got a bit confused when I should tighten my chain.
I have a scotloiler on it, and they is about 2" of play on the chain, when the bike is on it's center stand.

Does the chain need to be adjusted ? OR what is the experience of the members,
on how loose a chain should get before adjustment

thanks
dxtans

[Fatbelly]

Yep, needs adjusted. At the slackest point you want about 25-30mm (1"-1.25") That's my guestimate- check the book. A regularly adjusted chain lasts longer and is safer and gives a smoother ride. Once you've done it a few times it only takes 5 minutes. Remember to check the little alignment marks on both sides to ensure the wheel is straight or the bike won't handle right.

[doebag]

The handbook for the DL1000 specifies 0.8 to 1.2 inches of slack at the centre point with the bike on it's wheels.
Therefore you may need slightly more slack if you are measuring it on the centrestand.
Best way is to measure it on the wheels and then measure on centrestand to calculate the difference.

[dxtans]

OK , thanks.
I'll be doing that tomorrow, have not adjusted a chain for years.. here's hoping I do not screw it up.
The 650 book says have 3cm play, so I'll take it back a notch and then measure.

dxtans

[Commander]

Hi dx, as the blokes say...but I would also say be careful to the measure the chain slack AT THE TIGHTEST SPOT...not the slackest. In general terms always set the slack with the bike on it's wheels and to somewhere near the highest slack level mentioned in the book eg: 30mm (1.2inches). It is generally regarded as being much too tight at 20mm. A little too much slack is better than too tight, but you prolly know that. Good luck mate.

[Fatbelly]

doh! I said slackest when I meant tightest!

This is an indication of how much you should trust me in all things

[beep]

Agree with comments so far. Check it on the side stand and an overtight chain is worse than a slightly loose one. When testing slackness, just use one finger and not a lot of force - even an overtight chain can appear to be within range if you push it hard enough.

[dxtans]

Thanks for all your advice.
Managed to tighten it, but erring on the side on slackness, as suggested .
Rode it to work today, quick check , all looks OK

thanks
dxtans

[stromonoff]

This is an excellent you tube video on an SV.