How much chain slack on a street bike? How to measure slack?

SinnerDC2 · 03-18-2007, 03:13 PM

I found this topic but it doesnt say how much slack to have?

http://www.chinariders.net/modules.p...ighlight=slack

Also How do I measure slack in a chain?

Thanks,
Nick

Ferrit · 03-19-2007, 06:40 AM

The best way that I've found to measure the slack in a chain is to compress the rear shock until the swingarm is parallel to the ground. This is the tightest that the chain can be. You should adjust for about a half inch of slack, measured at the halfway point between the axle and the swingarm pivot.

A couple of methods for compressing the shock--Use a ratchet strap across the seat and cinch it down until the swingarm is level. Or lay across the seat, using your best circus balancing act! I prefer the former but end up using the later most often.

Also, once you have adjusted it correctly, check it with the bike sitting normally at rest. Then you will have a good idea of the slack so that when you walk out to the bike you can use your toe to tug up on it and get a pretty good idea if it has loosened any.

Hope that helps ya,
G.

03-18-2007, 03:13 PM	#1
SinnerDC2 Join Date: Mar 2007 Posts: 62	How much chain slack on a street bike? How to measure slack? I found this topic but it doesnt say how much slack to have? http://www.chinariders.net/modules.p...ighlight=slack Also How do I measure slack in a chain? Thanks, Nick
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03-19-2007, 06:40 AM	#2
Ferrit Join Date: Nov 2006 Location: Lawrenceburg, KY Posts: 178	The best way that I've found to measure the slack in a chain is to compress the rear shock until the swingarm is parallel to the ground. This is the tightest that the chain can be. You should adjust for about a half inch of slack, measured at the halfway point between the axle and the swingarm pivot. A couple of methods for compressing the shock--Use a ratchet strap across the seat and cinch it down until the swingarm is level. Or lay across the seat, using your best circus balancing act! I prefer the former but end up using the later most often. Also, once you have adjusted it correctly, check it with the bike sitting normally at rest. Then you will have a good idea of the slack so that when you walk out to the bike you can use your toe to tug up on it and get a pretty good idea if it has loosened any. Hope that helps ya, G.
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