How To Adjust and Align a Motorcycle Chain

[@88inertia]

This is a lifesaver. I'm a fairly new rider and now I'm having to learn all the maintainence stuff. It's difficult at first but your videos have helped so much. Thanks!

[@donwolfjr1]

I don't understand why anyone would give GOOD USEFUL info thumbs down... Thanks for the video, and the info!!!! ☺ Don W., TX

[@juanposada9319]

cause they're idiots.

[@supermonkiey]

I've only recently found your channel, but I feel like I've struck a gold mine. I'll be doing a number of services to my bike today, including this, for the first time. I bought a KTM 890 Duke R, almost 1 year ago. It's the first sportbike I've ever owned or ridden. Since then, I've felt like dealing with KTM directly has been like pulling teeth, and I haven't been particularly impressed with the shop I bought it from; that's been doing the service for me. Up until now! I just purchased more tools than my girlfriend would probably prefer, and I'm about to dig in. I'd like to thank you, as out of ALL the information available to me, from KTM's own official documents, to the world wide web, - YOUR wisdom has helped me the most, I'd say. From a complete beginner viewpoint, your instruction could not be more top notch. This is the first video I've seen that's not so recent, and the quality has clearly been incredible for a while now. I dropped my bike in a snow storm a few weeks ago, twice, on BOTH sides. (yikes) You've helped me understand introductory concepts so well, I'm legitimately excited to do my own work, as apposed to dreading it. I'm sure you've also just saved me a massive amount of money, honestly, and I couldn't be more appreciative. You're a god-send. I now have 30 tabs open, I'm planning work I didn't think I was capable of before, and your website is stunning. Sincerely, Some Guy

[@CanyonChasers]

Wow! Right on! Just take your time and don't force anything. It things aren't moving take a step back and figure out why. You probably just missed a bolt tucked away underneath somewhere out of sight. And remember, KTM will always find a way to let you know they are still in charge. 😜

[@temporaneocancellare7121]

I rarely leave a comment to videos, but I felt compelled to do it; I've seen many tutorial videos, but this one is really clear to understand and complete. Thank you.

[@francotanzarella5118]

Most helpfull video on chain adjustment I've found so far. Thanks.

[@weeeezzll]

The best video on chain adjustments I've seen. This looks like the simplest method to measure, adjust and align... The best thing about "simple" is that people are more likely to do it on a regular basis..

[@pmaloney1974]

This is the best chain adjustment video on youtube, IMHO. Thanks guys, really helped me get mine bang on.

[@larissap9267]

Excellent. So clear and helpful. Many other videos overlook the 'tight spots' and the variance. Super crucial... Thanks!

[@mike216ism]

Definitely the best video out there to learn to do this task. Much appreciated

[@StellarMoig]

Definitely agreed. Some of the newer videos don't explain everything like this video did and glosses over some of the fundamentals.

[@donovan-ryanneethling4425]

First time bike owner, found this very helpful, thank you!

[@Flashdan100]

By far the most helpful tutorial on chain adjustment that I’ve seen, thank you .

[@1ducyboy]

Hi Canyon buddy! just adjusted my Aprilia APRC drive chain - your instructions were spot-on! Thanks for that.

[@Aeriovalencia]

Wow really great clean straightforward information i wish there was more videos like this one.

[@ThePackJack]

Great Vid. Two great points: Measure from the swingarm pivot, and jam a wrench in the sprocket. Excellent "must know" tricks.

[@rahulrane1658]

Well explained. Everyone else gives the theory. You gave the practical demo. Very nice indeed.

[@aleksvolochnev9760]

Totally awesome video. I just watched like five of them (how to adjust the chain slack) and this one is the best.

[@CanyonChasers]

Awesome, thank you! And to think, it was one of our very first videos. We've come such a long way since then.

[@daltoncerella9681]

Agreed

[@MrRCPeter]

Thanks for the help, Nancy!

[@jackjones3657]

Best video I've seen on chain slack and tightening procedures! Thanks

[@jdvmocycleadventures2900]

I've never thought to jam something in the sprocket to create a tight chain and hold the axle in place. Great tip!

[@connorself4424]

Simple quick and looks much more efficient and effective the best video yet you must have be taught by old school thumbs up on the video.

[@ienupar2003]

Thanks you Canyon Chasers for the instructional video and greetings from Romania!

[@joiceyuk]

just watched the video as I now have to adjust my chain on my Lifan 125-30. Very clear "how-to" video so thank you very much

[@MrAusadventure]

Great video. I just replaced chain and sprockets on my V-Strom today and I found this very helpful!

[@hulkingowl]

Holy crap, best video on this hands down! Makes it so easy to understand

[@gmctech]

Best chain adjusting video I've seen yet!

[@aethervortex]

Great video! Straight from the hip and no nonsense. Thanks a bunch, Dude!

[@14guitars67]

Your videos are some of the most clear and complete that I have seen. Many thanks!

[@CanyonChasers]

Thank you!

[@Zed100000]

GOod one thanks, I adjusted my chain recently but only checked it in one place for the correct slack. Some riding later and my chain was operating my louder than usual, grinding and squeaking sounds. Re-checked my chain and that was virtually no movement in some spots on the chain!! adjusted and now its great. Checking with a measuring tape is a good idea - but i have to remove both my dual exhausts which is a bit of a pain!.

[@Gav671]

Great tips nancy. You are now one of my favourites.

[@Cbrplay]

Thank you!! I've not seen another say to press the chain down, and measure from that point up... That's a very important step in my book!!!! 👌🏼👍🏼 they are showing measuring from idle, up....

[@Dakyne2]

Need to do mine over the weekend. This video gave me some new "tricks" to do it even better than i use to.. AWESUM INFO, thx man.

[@AliG-pn5of]

Sir the science and reasoning in the video is really very intelligent and sensible. Thank you so much for sharing this knowledge. My bike sprockets are doing really awesome because of you. 3 years back I started using your method and since then I am just so happy and biking is so much fun with no stress or doubt. God bless 🙏

[@jeffreyhargis2482]

Thanks Nancy

[@jakubmuller9132]

Still the best video guide about properly adjusting your chain 👍🤙

[@Martyn0001]

Very informative and well made vid. Thanks from a newbie biker in the UK!

[@partyman6666]

It means you look at where (on the ruler) the top of the chain link is when it's resting(instead of the bottom of that link), take a note of where that spot lines up on the ruler, and then lift up on the chain and check the top of that same chain link now for its new location on the ruler. You don't have to use the top, you can do top-to-top or bottom-to-bottom, whichever you want, but you have to stick with top/top or bottom/bottom within the same set of measurement comparisons.

[@mrmischievous]

THANKS a ton for this one... the 8mm allen trick is what i needed to make my adjustments, cuz I was never able to do it well before.

[@Dravensdmf]

fantastic video. im just off outside with my Haynes manual to do my cbr 600f for the first time. Never needed to adjust my chain tension on my yzfr125 in the whole year i owned it. So this is a first for me.

[@nigelmitchell351]

I have found the best way to ensure accurate sprocket alignment is simply to buy a one metre length of 13mm dia mild steel bright. Remove chain guard, lay the steel on the rollers of the top run of chain, push the steel as far towards the engine sprocket as possible. Now measure from the tyre sides to the steel and adjust at the rear axle until equal. You now have an accurately aligned chain run. The reference from rear wheel axle to swing arm pivot may not be accurate As these points may not be symmetrical. The most accurate reference is the front wheel, I do this by by using a bungee to attach a lazer spirit level to the side of the rear tyre. Measure at both sides of the front wheel and adjust until equal front and back. I found the my RSV was out by 2mm on the swing arm marks. Also when adjusted, take the spirit level and check if both wheels are exactly vertical.? I first did this year's ago on a GPZ900, the difference on the bike was amazing.!

[@zappa916]

love my single sided swingarm. no fluffing around with tape measures , strings and cam adjusters for alignments.

[@pdubbs128]

Thanks for the tutorial! It always blows my mind how anybody could give a thumbs down to a video like this.

[@michaelhawthorne8696]

Just adjusted mine and noticed the marker washer was able to move back and forth slightly, it made me think this adjustment method was useless. Making that measurement from the swing arm pivot point to the rear axle centre point makes complete sense.... Thanks for this info

[@benjismoto2235]

Super informative thank u!!

[@mosesposes]

best video on youtube for chain adjustment.

[@Gen3Benz]

Best vid on youtube for chain adjustment. Good video, audio, and you even sounds like an info-mercial. Gotta give an explanation for the nancy apron though.....

[@WalterEdom]

Very clear detailed explanation of the job - thank you muchly - have 2 Kawasakis to do tomorrow Z750 and 650L - will watch again before I do.

[@JFizoust]

Seriously, thank you for taking the time to make this video!!

[@nifethrubutter]

Thanks so much guys! I learned a lot, everything is crystal clear and you guys explain WHY you're doing the steps. Most guides just tell you what to do, but they fail to explain it. My chain is nice and snug now :)

[@mcyankovich]

I would have never thought of the 8mm trick. Thanks!

[@Speedsix13]

Great video. LOVE that paint job on that bike. Never seen one like it and it looks great.

[@pixiemimi20]

I've just become responsible for my own bike maintenance. I'm going to adjust my chain this weekend, pray for me.

[@CanyonChasers]

You'll do fine. Just take your time. Don't rush and don't force anything. Every rider should be able to adjust their chain proficiently enough to be able to do it on the side of the road. :)

[@ericapland]

Awesome video ! Thanks for the useful tips and tricks it helped tremendously !

[@NESBAX]

Thanks for the post Canyon chaser , it helps me a lot

[@ajl9791]

Excellent video. Always learning new tricks. Thanks guys

[@katanawraith]

Omg!! I've seen that sv650 on wikipedia that is such a sick bike. I ride a 2000 sv650 streetfighter

[@ominguti6345]

Nicely done video. It would be even better if you mentioned some motorcycle manuals give the chain slack value for the bike on a side stand and that your chain will definitely be too tight if you set minimum slack while on center stand.

[@restolad]

thankyou so much for this lesson, you are a very good teacher. Restolad

[@JellyForSale]

Super helpful!!

[@LCRRcreed]

Awesome video. First time bike owner, needed this!!!

[@oldskooldancemusic1]

great vid, just snapped a chain from possibly not alligning it or lubing enough, will take more care next time!

[@CanyonChasers]

I typically try to get it within a mm. 0.5mm is better, of course, but there is going to be some play in the chain and between the chain and the sprocket no matter how perfect you get it. Not to mention your swingarm is going to have a bit of flex too.

[@hvnsnt01]

great video, very descriptive and saves me having to get it done and forking out for it. thankyou

[@CanyonChasers]

@alantecontra - The direction of the axle isn't critical on the SV650 as long as you have the spacers in the correct location. You need special tools to change bearings, and things can go horribly wrong if it's done correctly. Thats really a job for a trained mechanic. And you probably don't need to replace the axle, but you may want to have a mechanic look at it, it's possible it's now warped.

[@Baukovd]

some older motorcycle dudes with a large experience could renew some 'materials' from the past :) me included! thanks it was refreshing:)

[@CanyonChasers]

It controls the rotation of the brake caliper. On some models, you need to loosen the bolt, on most bikes, however, there is enough movement/play in the torque link that it's not necessary.

[@socialgarcia]

Very useful video, Nancy.

[@nav900]

As far as I know (from all the garages I've used over the years) the measurement is to be taken with the rider sitting on the bike....this allows for extra weight eg a pillion + luggage. Hitting a bump in the road or bottoming out at the bottom of a hill or over a crest of a hill.

[@greenmarine5]

Excellent video....especially on the alignment part...thanks

[@shaneanderson1648]

Very comprehensive vid, thanks.

[@hibbs79]

Great video

[@JPPerformance360]

Excellent video and great info

[@kelvinfeliciano]

Thanks for the detailed video. This is exactly what I was looking for.

[@omzzy005]

thanks...very well spoken..well described on all my Questions which i couldnt else where...THANKS

[@CanyonChasers]

@Sbafokkio Putting the wrench in pulls everything forward so it makes the chain a smidgen looser (which is okay) but whats important about it, is it makes sure the axel and all the spacers are pulled together tightly so there is no slop in any of the parts.

[@CanyonChasers]

The chain wasn't filthy or old. But it did have some tight links - not quite kinks. Most likely caused by not being as fastidious about lubing the chain.

[@kevinspalding5470]

Brilliant site this !.subscribed to this excellent for information.

[@Sbafokkio]

Awesome video. One thing I don't understand is, if you put the wrench in between the chain and sprocket before you tighten everything, wouldn't that move things forward and interfere with the adjustment of the slack you just made? After I move the adjusters, supposedly the chain is adjusted, correct? Well now after I put the wrench in, I'm pushing everything together, wouldn't that affect the chain slack again?

[@690ADV]

very informative and well put together!

[@Aryan8Pride8]

This is, by far, the BEST instructional video on chain tension. Thanks Nancy and quit using ur wife's apron!

[@MusicTheory73]

How do you get a good measurement from the axle bolt to the swing arm bolt on the right side of the bike? The exhaust seems to be in the way and the tape measure bends, making it a longer measurement.

[@CanyonChasers]

@dnisbetjones On the Centerstand is just fine. Some bikes, such as many Ducati's, will tell you take all weight off the swingarm to get the most accurate measurement. Also, I wouldn't bother checking again with weight on the bike unless the manual tells you to. The slack you are putting into your chain is to accommodate the swingarms movements.

[@Siniestro]

nice tutorial Nancy!!

[@brenguy333]

Thanks for the pro tips!

[@mikekocziban]

Great video - has given me the confidence to sort out my chain alignment :-)

[@janseendiguiseppiThomasMC]

Awesome tips! I rely like three Allen wrench tip for spacing the chain. Awesome

[@spoonlamp]

Adjusting the chain on the bike is supposed to be one of the easiest things to do on a bike but I've had nothing but difficulties with it. I know a trained mechanic can just put it through his system and do it in no time, but I think there are so many variables they don't mention. Checking the play in the chain - wheel on the ground or off? Every time I adjust anything and go to tighten things up the chain play changes. Tighten up the adjusters - chain changes. Tighten up the axle nut - chain changes. Put the bike on the ground - chain changes. Push it around garage - chain changes. Take it for test ride - chain changes. Learning from mistakes is fine when you're being trained by a mechanic cos they can spot the mistakes. At home it can be costly...

[@CanyonChasers]

Verify that your chain has no tight spots or loose spots. You should measure sag at the tightest part of the chain. If the variance between the tight spot and loose spot is too great, its time for a new chain or sprockets. If you are lucky and you catch a worn chain soon enough, you can get away without having to replace the sprockets as well.

[@jakelammas6579]

Seriously, thank u so much for the video.

[@allancheli]

My chain came off, had to reattach on the sidewalk so must be really loose..when i got home, i just used a ruler to measure slack, then to align the axle, i just used the line marks. Shifts and engine brakes a lot better now…shifts buttery smooth.

[@richberr]

I realize this is an old video but it was so well done that I’m hoping you still check it as it’s the clearest and best I’ve seen. Anyway, adjusting my chain is for me a long frustrating process because when I get it how it should be, re-tightening the axle moves everything out of whack. I know I’m doing something wrong…..Any tips or tricks? Thanks and thanks for a great video!

[@CanyonChasers]

Some swingarms have flex in them, so when you tighten the rear axel, the singarm basically gets longer.

[@quiknik888]

great video! a "how to change a chain" video would be awesome as well!!! and with german subtitles ;-)

[@CanyonChasers]

Not necessarily, kinks take up slack, if you can not get the entire chain within the adjustment tolerance across the entire chain then you need to consider replacing it. Having the chain go from tight tolerance to loose tolerance can be caused by either the chain wearing or the sprockets wearing.

[@CanyonChasers]

@javachan Its' always a good idea to use a torque wrench, but the torque setting will be unique to your motorcycle. Just realize a quality torque wrench big enough to handle that size bolt could cost around $100 or more.

[@CanyonChasers]

@mongrelchild Sorta. The weight of the bike should be on the rear wheel, but the slack in the chain is to compensate for the movement of the swingarm and the weight of the rider. So from that point of view, you don't need to put any "additional" weight on the bike.

[@whiskyromeo2012]

very good presentation on doing it yourself.. thanks :)

[@cardenasrc51]

Sweet vid!! I'm gonna check out the website right now!

[@shez99999]

very help full many thanks.

[@laarland]

Great tutorial!

[@Hypermotard]

Great video bro!

[@thomasaaenhollen1303]

Thanks.. it Help me a Lot