Is your chain suppose to be so tight that you can barely move it or is there suppose to be a little slack?

 

1. Put your bike in gear so it doesn't roll forward or back.

2. Take the slack out of the top of the chain by rolling your bike back until the chain is tight.

3. Push up on the lower part of your chain in the middle between your rear sprocket and your frame. You should be able to push the chain up approximately 1/2 to 3/4 inches for a new chain or 1 inch for a used or broken in chain.

 

1 and 3/8 inches of slack i believe per shop manual. Too tight and you'll destroy your sprockets.

 

I've always been confused if that one inch or so of slack is when it is on a stand, or on the ground? Or does it matter. I've heard both opinions.

 

On a stand is more consistent. When it's on the kickstand a certain indeterminable weight is transferred off the suspension. I would suggest using a rear stand.

 

Make sure it's in neutral too, the tranny can pull on it either way and make it seem tight or loose. I usually go by the 2 finger width rule. A little loose is better than too tight.

 

man, not for me...

wait what are we talking about?

 

Zing!

 

thanks for all the help guys i appreciate it alot!!!