Brian’s advice on lubricating chains is good stuff, couldn’t agree more.
To add to that, be careful when adjusting the chain tension. I have found over a long time that knowing what tension the chain is under when you are sitting on the bike is more important than what you might think.
A chain that is too loose will result in premature wear, poor gear changes, noise, vibration …
Manufacturers ask you to set the tension with the bike on its side stand and in neutral. This is OK for a static setting, but when you sit on the bike the rear axle effectively rises in relation to the rest of the bike and when this happens the distance between the front and rear sprockets increases. When this happens the chain becomes tighter.
The initial slack envisioned by the manufacturers is designed to allow for this but, because we all have a different idea of what a centimetre is, this can result in a variable tension once the rider is on board.
Next, the mean (average) weight that bikes are designed for is usually around 75kg (including all apparel). We here in the land of the big burger and pie quite often we are starting at 75kg PLUS apparel and upwards from there. Because of this the rear of the bike can settle a little further again and tighten the chain even more.
Now, get someone to help by checking the tension while you are sitting on the bike with full gear, or an equivalent weight helper sitting on it instead. Roll the bike forward or back till the chain is at its tightest point (the older the chain the more likely for there to be a tight spot) then you should be able to move the chain up and down about 1/4″ (8mm) either side of centre. If you have this right, then even when the chain is hot there should still be a slight bit of slack there when weighted.
A chain that is too loose will result in premature wear, poor gear changes, noise, vibration and the chain lube will flick off readily.
A chain that is too tight will result in much the same things but with the added wear to the swingarm bearings, rear sprocket carrier bearing and the transmission output shaft bearing.
If you are new at this don’t be daunted by what I am suggesting, but rather ask someone to help who has been around the game a bit longer or drop into a good bike shop and ask the mechanic to show you how.
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A correctly adjusted chain should have approx 25mm of travel with the rider sitting on the bike. A chain that is to tight will restrict your rear shocks ability to function properly which in turn affects how your bike will handle and has the potential to snap your chain.
Comment by bkr50 — Jun 12 @ 5:28 pm