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Chain question (sagging)

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3.1K views 36 replies 14 participants last post by  Moto_Joe  
#1 ·
I've had my bike for 2 seasons now and the chain is saggy as fuck. theres atleast 2 inches of travel, why is this and how do i fix it.
 
#2 ·
Chains stretch over time. Can be adjusted by bringing the rear wheel back using the adjusters on both sides. 2" isn't that bad though. How many miles on that set up? Take a look at the teeth on the sprockets, if they're starting to round or get a shark fin appearance, its time for a new set.
 
#6 ·
:wtf Arent you lubing that bad boy?? You have to lube and clean that chain once in a while. I do mine after avery 3-5 rides or so. 7/8 to 1 1/4 is optimal for chain tension, measuring in the middle with out weight on the bike. The chain should NEVER be rusty.
 
#8 ·
:eek Damn dude, you need to clean and lube chains from time to time. Also you will have to adjust the chain tension to get rid of the slack.
Sounds like your sprockets and chain are done so when you get the new set get some chain lube.
Lube keeps it from rusting and getting hot and stretching out so quickly.
 
#11 ·
Take the chain on the bottom side and pull down. Now start your measuring there. When you pull it up it should travel between the allowed sag. Then tighten everything up and check it again. Finally clean that chain and lube it before it breaks and causes a serious accident or tears up even more.
 
#14 ·
Loosen the axle and block adjusters and slightly try to kick the tire towards the front of the bike while holding on to the tail so the bike dont fall over.
Dont loosen the axle to much. Leave it some what tight so that way there is some drag so it wont keep moving so bad when your adjusting the sag.
 
#15 ·
I would probably get a new chain kit if you haven't been taking care of it. Also if you read your manual it should explain how. Just don't want that part of the bike failing on you as it can have some hefty consequences. Make sure you don't overtighten it as that is just as bad as too loose. I would inspect your sprockets and chain for stretch and wear at the same time. If there is someone local to you or a bike club maybe someone can walk you through it?
 
#18 ·
First, get it set where you want it. Roll up a rag/washcloth/old t-shirt and stuff it in between the sprocket and chain then roll the bike forward so it's wedged. Now tighten the axle nut to (check your manual) 75ft lbs. This way it won't keep losing adjustment when you tighten it.

It seems like a small thing but neglecting simple maintenance can get you killed on a motorcycle. (chain breaks, locks up rear wheel, sending newb into guard rail then into traffic where he is run over multiple times) Last bike week we had a guy and gal on a Harley die on the highway all because dude hadn't checked his tire pressure.
 
#19 ·
I am going to be needing to adjust my chain within the next few rides as well if not now. My question is 75 ft. lbs. the accurate torque setting for that axle bolt? I want to be sure and don't remember reading it in the owners manual anywhere...maybe I just overlooked it...I just don't wnat anything coming loose on me while I'm riding. If it is 75 ft. lbs. I don't think my wrench even goes that high...:confused
 
#24 ·
Use a LIGHT lube ( I use Dupont multi use dry silicon)

Lube it AFTER (key here) you ride. With the chain still warm the lube will spread over the chain better. I spray it right where the chain goes in towards the front sprocket on top of the swingarm.

To see if the chain and sprockets are garbage, pull on the chain at the BACK of the rear sprocket. Good rule of thumb is if yo can pull the chain halfway or more off the teeth, the sprocket and/or the chain are worn, and need to replace ALL THREE components at one time. If not the already worn parts will wear out the new parts you put on.
 
#33 ·
Just remember, having your chain a little too loose is WAY better than having it a little too tight. I try to keep mine at the upper limit as specified. (ie.. if it says 25mm-30mm of sag, I set it at 30mm) Lube the chain every other tank of fuel (when you get home). Get a good aerosol wax. The solvent in the areosol is a great cleaner. Spray it on thick... saturate the chain. It will wash out the dirt and leave fresh wax behind. Let it soak for about 15 minutes, then wipe off the excess. Do this religiously and you'll never have to really clean it.
 
#35 ·
Too tight can blow countershaft seals. Too loose can cause premature wear.

BUT on the track I ere slightly on the tight side. too much drive line slop akes off idle abruptness that much worse, and can lead to chassis instabilities, wheel spin, or highsides on corner exit