
During installation, place the sprocket on an unworn sprocket seat, install the sprocket fixing screws, attach the locking washer, and mount the tire before installing the chain. Slightly tighten the chain, then slowly rotate the rear wheel to observe the chain's tension. When adjusting, rotate the rear wheel to the tightest point of the chain and gently tap the sprocket forward with a wooden or rubber mallet to loosen the chain. Rotate the rear wheel to check if the chain still has uneven tension. Repeat this process several times until the chain is roughly stable, then tighten the sprocket fixing screws and secure the locking washer. Finally, check the chain's tension again. The tire and sprocket should be roughly concentric.

I've been riding motorcycles for over a decade, and chain derailments are quite common. The first step when stopping is to ensure stability—use a paddock stand to lift the rear wheel; if you don't have one, lean the bike against a wall. Wear sturdy gloves to protect your hands because the chain is greasy and can easily cut your skin. Then, identify where the chain is stuck—usually at the rear sprocket. Loosen the adjustment bolts on the axle with a wrench to give the chain some slack; otherwise, it won't budge. Carefully lift the chain and align it with the teeth on the front sprocket, turning the rear wheel as you guide it into place. After reinstalling, tighten the adjustment bolts to achieve proper tension—the chain's midpoint sag should be about 5 cm. Before testing, push the bike forward a few steps to check for smooth operation. A word of advice: this requires patience. When I was younger, I rushed and damaged a chain. Now, I've learned to regularly lubricate and inspect for wear.

Safety is the priority when reinstalling a dropped chain. First, I park the bike, turn off the engine, and place it on level ground, choosing a well-lit area to avoid poor visibility in the dark. Wearing full-finger protective gloves is a must, as the metal edges of the chain can be sharp and cause cuts. Use a paddock stand to securely lift the rear wheel; if no stand is available, find something to prop it up. Loosen the chain adjuster screws to slacken the chain, then gently push the chain back onto the sprocket by hand. If it’s difficult, a bit of lubricant can help it slide into place. After alignment, retighten the screws and adjust the tension—neither too tight nor too loose. Once done, spin the wheel to test for any stiffness. Keep the workspace clean throughout to prevent slipping. Developing a habit of checking the chain before riding can prevent trouble, and I always carry basic tools in my backpack for emergencies.

As a newbie to riding motorcycles, I was a bit confused when the chain fell off. The steps aren't difficult: first, park the bike steadily and don't panic. Put on gloves to protect your hands. Locate where the chain came off, usually near the rear wheel. If you have a wrench, loosen the adjustment screws to slacken the chain a bit. Then, manually push the chain back onto the sprocket teeth. After reinstalling, tighten the screws and test the wheel rotation. If it doesn't work, seek help from a professional shop instead of forcing it. With more practice, you'll get the hang of it naturally. Regularly applying lubricant can reduce the chances of the chain falling off.


