What to Do If the Motorcycle Chain Is Too Tight?
3 Answers
How to check the tightness of a motorcycle chain: Use a screwdriver to lift the middle part of the chain. If the movement is not excessive and the chain does not touch the lower part, the tightness is appropriate. The tightness is determined by the movement of the middle part when lifted. Precautions for using a motorcycle chain are as follows: Difficulty in adjusting a new chain: Links can be removed as needed, but the number must be even. The connecting rod should pass through the rear part of the chain, and the lock plate should be inserted on the outside. The opening direction of the lock plate should be opposite to the rotation direction. Severe sprocket wear: Both the new sprocket and chain should be replaced simultaneously to ensure proper engagement. A new chain or sprocket should not be replaced alone, as this may cause poor engagement and accelerate wear. When the tooth surface of the sprocket is worn to a certain extent, it should be flipped for use (referring to adjustable surface sprockets) to extend service life.
I just got back from a long ride and noticed that chain tension issues often trouble experienced riders. Excessive tightness accelerates wear on the chain, sprockets, and gears, causes abnormal noises during riding, and may even lead to breakage and accidents. In my garage, I placed the bike on a center stand and measured the sag—the manual recommends 10-15mm as optimal. Then, using a wrench, I loosened the rear axle nut, adjusted the tension bolts bit by bit, and evenly tightened everything back up. After adjusting, I took a test ride to confirm smooth operation. Don't forget to regularly lubricate the chain with chain oil; excessive tightness might be due to dirt or lack of maintenance. Make it a habit to check every 500km to prevent overstretching. This method is simple but requires patience and prioritizes safety.
Last weekend, while riding with my cycling buddies in the mountains, my chain suddenly became too tight, causing severe jolts and increasing the risk of chain damage. After some research, I decided to fix it myself: I pushed the bike to a safe spot and used tools to lift the rear wheel. I measured the chain sag, aiming for an ideal 10mm. Then, I slightly loosened the chain by adjusting the tension screw with a wrench. After tightening the nut, I applied chain lubricant for protection. Beginners often make mistakes like over-adjusting or neglecting to clean off dust, so I recommend wearing gloves to avoid oil stains. After each ride, check the chain sag and combine it with regular cleaning to prevent jamming and extend the chain's lifespan. After this maintenance, the ride became much smoother.
