Measure slack at the specified point, check for tight spots and hooked teeth, lubricate after rain, and replace the chain and sprockets as a set when worn. Correct alignment matters as much as tension.
What this job covers
Measure slack at the specified point, check for tight spots and hooked teeth, lubricate after rain, and replace the chain and sprockets as a set when worn. Correct alignment matters as much as tension.
Signs you need it
The chain is noisy, dry or rusty. Slack changes as the wheel turns. The sprocket teeth are hooked or pointed. The chain needs adjustment every few rides. There is a vibration or clunk under acceleration.
The process
Clean: The chain is cleaned with a suitable cleaner, not a pressure washer aimed at the seals.
Measure: Slack is measured at the specified point, and wear is checked over a set number of links.
Inspect: Tight spots, stiff links, damaged O-rings and sprocket wear are recorded.
Align and adjust: Rear-wheel alignment is checked, then slack is set to the manual figure.
Lubricate: The correct lubricant is applied to the inside of the chain and allowed to settle.
Replace when due: A worn chain and hooked sprockets are replaced as a set, with correct riveting or clip fitting.
What is included
Chain wear measurement, not just a visual check Sprocket tooth and alignment inspection Correct slack adjustment Cleaning and lubrication guidance A recommendation on replacement timing A note on riding style and maintenance interval
What affects the scope
Chain type and quality Sprocket condition and gearing changes Swingarm and axle condition Riding conditions: rain, dust, distance
How to prepare
Do not adjust a chain on a hot exhaust or with the engine running. Tell us if the bike carries a passenger or luggage regularly. Bring the old chain and sprockets if you have already replaced them.
Checklist
- Chain slack measurement and adjustment
- Cleaning and lubrication
- Wear measurement and tight-spot detection
- Sprocket tooth and runout inspection
- Rear-wheel alignment
- Chain and sprocket replacement
Questions
How often should I lubricate the chain?
After rain and every few hundred kilometres is a practical starting point. A dry chain wears quickly; an over-lubricated chain attracts grit. Clean, then lubricate.
Can I replace only the chain?
A new chain on worn sprockets wears out quickly and runs noisily. Replace the set unless the sprockets are genuinely like new.
How tight should the chain be?
Use the figure in the manual for your model, measured at the specified point with the bike on its side stand or centre stand as instructed. Too tight is worse than slightly loose.
