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-   -   Couple of chain questions (https://cbrforum.com/forum/f4i-main-forum-11/couple-chain-questions-122350/)

MuscleswitCBR 03-13-2011 05:36 PM

Couple of chain questions
 
I was adjusting my chain today and I noticed it gets really tight in some spots then loose in others. Is my chain bad already? Theres only 5k on it. I know that chain play is 1 1/4 max but my question is if I give it 1inch play on the tight part of the chain then its too loose on the other part. How should I adjust? Right now I have it about inch of play on the loose part. My next question, On the adjustment screws I have them set the same using the lines as guides. The right side(exhaust side) adjustment screw is so loose I can spin it with my hand while the other side screw I have to use a wrench to turn. Is this normal? I broke loose the axle bolt then adjust chain slack then tighten back down axle nut and the right side screw is still loose to the point you can turn it with your hand and the marks look dead on both sides. Sorry for the dumb questions first bike trying to learn lol. Thanks everybody

MuscleswitCBR 03-14-2011 04:33 PM

Anybody?

DBEAU 03-14-2011 05:37 PM

Adjust to the tight spot. In other words, move it to the tight spot and adjust it to 1 1/4. And yes, if you're experiencing tight spots the chain is "bad" however it's not like the bike will blow up. It should be changed, along with the sprockets, but you'll be okay for a while if you don't.

With the adjusters, I imagine the side with the chain on it would naturally exert more force on the adjusters. It's a good idea to adjust the chain with the axle loose and then push forward on the tire while you tighten the axle.

I wouldn't necessarily put too much faith in the markings though. If you want to truly align the rear tire I would recommend the string method. It's a pain in the ass but it is the only way to be sure.

String method -- http://www.motorcyclistonline.com/ho...els/index.html

http://www.ehow.com/how_4584111_chec...alignment.html

MuscleswitCBR 03-14-2011 09:00 PM


Originally Posted by DBEAU (Post 1025387)
Adjust to the tight spot. In other words, move it to the tight spot and adjust it to 1 1/4. And yes, if you're experiencing tight spots the chain is "bad" however it's not like the bike will blow up. It should be changed, along with the sprockets, but you'll be okay for a while if you don't.

With the adjusters, I imagine the side with the chain on it would naturally exert more force on the adjusters. It's a good idea to adjust the chain with the axle loose and the push forward on the tire while you tighten the axle.

I wouldn't necessarily put too much faith in the markings though. If you want to truly align the rear tire I would recommend the string method. It's a pain in the ass but it is the only way to be sure.

String method -- http://www.motorcyclistonline.com/ho...els/index.html

http://www.ehow.com/how_4584111_chec...alignment.html

Thanks alot for the great info! I have my chain too tight then for sure i gotta run out and adjust it and ill try pushing on the tire hopefully that will help. Ive never heard of the string method but seems like such a better way to align the bike so ill give that a try also. Thanks again!

gotcbr 03-14-2011 09:30 PM

[Edited To Add: Don't know how the red thumbs down got on my post. Ignore it.]


Originally Posted by MuscleswitCBR (Post 1025026)
Sorry for the dumb questions first bike trying to learn lol. Thanks everybody

Not dumb questions at all. I applaud your willingness to learn, instead of depending on having a shop do everything. You're taking the steps toward being a responsible bike owner by keeping your bike maintained & safe.

Chain maintenance should be of primary concern to any rider. Do some searches here on the forum regarding chain maintenance. Proper cleaning & adjustment will increase the life of your bike's chain & sprockets. It sounds like you're already taking initiative.

Specifically to your post...
As a chain wears, those tight/loose spots develop. This is normal. That variance will typically increase to the point where its almost impossible to reliably adjust w/ any accuracy. Also by this point, the adjusters are probably adjusted fully out or close to it, & the chain's useful life is gone. Ultimately, you'll need to replace your chain & sprockets.

You do not want a loose chain coming off a sprocket while riding. :O I'm all for getting maximum utility out of a chain/sprockets but when the chain gets so loose that its no longer capable of being adjusted, you're past the point of safety.

W/o seeing pics of your chain specifically & at what point you are on that chain adjustment scale, its difficult to give you precise advice other than to keep in mind what's said above.

When you're ready to change your chain & sprockets, I recommend Incognito's excellent HOW-TO... https://cbrforum.com/forum/how-mechanical-40/chain-sprocket-swap-97641/ . It shows proper installation & adjustment.

Good luck.

backyardmechanic 03-14-2011 09:51 PM


Originally Posted by gotcbr (Post 1025486)
[Edited To Add: Don't know how the red thumbs down got on my post. Ignore it.]



Not dumb questions at all. I applaud your willingness to learn, instead of depending on having a shop do everything. You're taking the steps toward being a responsible bike owner by keeping your bike maintained & safe.

Chain maintenance should be of primary concern to any rider. Do some searches here on the forum regarding chain maintenance. Proper cleaning & adjustment will increase the life of your bike's chain & sprockets. It sounds like you're already taking initiative.

Specifically to your post...
As a chain wears, those tight/loose spots develop. This is normal. That variance will typically increase to the point where its almost impossible to reliably adjust w/ any accuracy. Also by this point, the adjusters are probably adjusted fully out or close to it, & the chain's useful life is gone. Ultimately, you'll need to replace your chain & sprockets.

You do not want a loose chain coming off a sprocket while riding. :O I'm all for getting maximum utility out of a chain/sprockets but when the chain gets so loose that its no longer capable of being adjusted, you're past the point of safety.

W/o seeing pics of your chain specifically & at what point you are on that chain adjustment scale, its difficult to give you precise advice other than to keep in mind what's said above.

When you're ready to change your chain & sprockets, I recommend Incognito's excellent HOW-TO... https://cbrforum.com/forum/showthread.php?t=97641 . It shows proper installation & adjustment.

Good luck.

Yeah what he said and there are never dumb questions when it comes to motorcycle maintenance, its better to ask then have a 350 pound pretty piece of metal and plastic in your garage

DBEAU 03-14-2011 10:27 PM

Here's a good read on chain maintenance -- http://www.sportrider.com/suspension...ent/index.html

MuscleswitCBR 03-15-2011 09:21 PM

Thanks everybody for the great info! I'll try and get another month or two out of it then get a nice gold DID or something. Thanks for all the support everybody! Thats why i really like this forum, theres alot of great people on here willing to take time out of their day and help a guy like me learn. I appreciate every bit of knowledge you guys give me because I believe half the fun of owning a bike is working on it! Thanks again!

backyardmechanic 03-15-2011 09:23 PM


Originally Posted by MuscleswitCBR (Post 1026034)
I appreciate every bit of knowledge you guys give me because I believe half the fun of owning a bike is working on it!

True words my friend

Slick 6 03-16-2011 06:41 AM

Rep just for saying that!

I once heard "ride her, respect her and maintain her just like a beatifull woman and she'll pleasure you everytime" :icon_toast:


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