Installing chain tensioners from SE racing on a Big Ripper

Why are chain tensioners important? Glad you asked. They keep your back wheel lined up and keep you rolling smoothly down the road. I'll show you how I like to install and adjust them and make sure everything is good to go.

[@atitagain83]

Came for the BMX, stayed for the Pit Vipers.

[@susanmary6864]

he actually described everything he was doing. like the wrench sizes, allen wrench sizes. it makes it a lot easier then guessing the sizes

[@taylorwhite5149]

Love that you answered 90 people each asking thw same question about about pegs. I always scroll comments before I ask anything, I must be one of the only ones 😄

[@BigBikeBMX]

Taylor, you're my favorite person in the world for this. I also just answered this question another three times tonight :)

[@haferman1]

I'm scrolling to find the answer...

[@XGaming1]

I didn’t even know these things existed till today, I always have trouble lining up and tightening my back wheel and having the chain right at the same time so thank you for this video. Definitely going to try these.

[@BigBikeBMX]

They’re a game-changer. Pull the wheel tight and finger-tighten the bolts and then fine tune with the tensioners🤘

[@raymondchew8894]

Thanks for explaining how to install and set up the chain tensioner. It will helpful for me who trying to solve chain skipping for a used bike I just bought for my grandson.

[@TheDRUMSMYWIFE]

I always have a not so snug chain after so many rides and the wheel alignment is always out of wack for me. But after watching this video it helps me out when I do get some Chain Tensioners. I’m gonna go with some black ops CT’s to go with some black ops parts that are already on my So Cal. Thanks for the informative video. Looks like a “set it and forget it” kinda piece of doohickey

[@dlux626]

Proper maintenance make riding more fun!

[@seanacevedo3772]

Appreciate the vid bro got my tensioners coming in today excited to put them on, stay safe bro your chill af

[@techjunkie68smusicandtech56]

Looks nice, I am wanting some of those for my So Cal Flyer soon. I have the stealth black So Cal Flyer with gold parts, looks and rides great!

[@krashbandicoot78]

Thanks for the great video learned alot. Gonna order a pair now!!!

[@wozgetley5722]

Cool vid never used them before 🤘🤘 keep em coming 👌🤘🤘

[@erikjensen6503]

Thanks for sharing until i watched your freewheel replacement i had no idea they even made them for bikes. Just got my son the SE Big Ripper HD for his birthday and now I'm going to find those gold chain adjusters! They look just like what are on my motorcycles but smaller. Thanks for your videos and time!

[@BigBikeBMX]

Your local SE Dealer can get the gold tensioners pretty quick. They’ll look great with the gold pads🤘🤘

[@dominicsoto2162]

Would be much appreciated if you did a vid on adjusting brakes. I personally haven’t had an issue with my brakes yet. But it’s only a matter of time. Another great vid!

[@BigBikeBMX]

Will do! Thanks for the comment and for watching bro!

[@trapgonzalez3449]

Thank you so much Isaac new to bmx’s never got super in depth with them as a kid now here I am at 30 trying to figure out how things work appreciate the videos and tutorials brother !

[@BigBikeBMX]

Thanks for watching bro! I'm learning as I go here too. Lots of new tech in BMX these days! Welcome to the Big Bike BMX family!

[@trapgonzalez3449]

@@BigBikeBMX appreciate you brother awesome content it was hard not to watch and subscribe keep up the great work blessings to you and the family

[@ofrenic]

I'm only getting into bmx now and I'm 27, bit late to the party but we're here nonetheless

[@rickmonster636]

Always informative and entertaining. Thanks for posting such good Content

[@BigBikeBMX]

Thanks Rick🤘

[@paulgreenwell8949]

Nice video bro much respect got some for my racing bike bmx rides smoothly

[@larsyoung]

Super informative video!!! I’m definitely goin got put them on any of my SE Bikes that do have them. Thanks!!! Oh yeah...DOPE GLASSES!!!!! Super Fly! 🙏🏾😎🏁

[@BigBikeBMX]

Thanks man! They’re definitely useful and handy for keeping things lined up🤘

[@Dogmeat_donnie]

@@BigBikeBMX oh that's why the funny [popping type sounds sometimes happen when I tighten my chain!!! It's too tight. Just got my tensioners today so now I'll know, thanks for the helpful video.

[@BigBikeBMX]

@@Dogmeat_donnie thanks Paul! That angry chain noise was annoying. Simple fix too👍

[@XGaming1]

Cool glasses man

[@marioavila1235]

Thanks 4 posting, I wish youtube would let me reply with a photo in my comments.....2 show U my bad ass cruiser.....Anyway I got caught cruising when my long chain cruiser, when the rear tire moved forward & I was nowhere near access 2 any tools. So I was walking my Custom Cruiser which always draws attention ...and peeps were like "Nice bike" ....while I was embarrassed cuz in my mind they were like " too bad it doesn't even work " ...lol That will never happen again...cuz I did the research & found out about this device that I will now install after this video .... Thanks

[@BigBikeBMX]

They’re perfect for that exact situation 🤘

[@Mctzuma]

Thanks for the help now I know what there used for

[@rexvapes9589]

Thanks for video, just ordered some for my Flyer

[@xdzc1]

what size tensioner did u get for a flyer

[@Short_Kid2007]

Thank you so much it fixed my box bike

[@loder6179]

i never knew a chain could be "too tight" thanks for the advice

[@BigBikeBMX]

They snap if they’re too tight. Chain tensioners let you dial in the wheel alignment and get things perfect

[@vice6996]

me neither hahaha. i'm sure i wasn't the only kid in their garage with the rear tire loosened up and pulling it back with all my strength while trying to tighten the axle nuts back down and trying to keep the tire aligned. just barely a slight wobble, good nuff. send it!

[@john_wisdom]

Cool video, informative, no bs. Nice.

[@gilbertvalenciano2931]

Hi from Safford Arizona love your videos

[@BigBikeBMX]

Gilbert Valenciano hey man! Thanks for watching!

[@mikeodell5915]

Great video and nice bike (as well as the H1)

[@BigBikeBMX]

Thanks Mike! That H1 sucks. My minivan is more reliable lol

[@miketaylor5141]

Beautiful bike! Rad color scheme

[@Cisco0615]

Great informative video, thanks

[@BigBikeBMX]

Glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for watching

[@ekhles104]

Very very very excellent I like it

[@hiphopsecops]

Man those glasses are dope! Thanks for the video!

[@BigBikeBMX]

It was so bright in Phoenix today. Had to wear them

[@jeffreyscales7891]

Nice video man.

[@BigBikeBMX]

Thanks for watching🤘

[@youngjimjones]

Diggin the Macho Man Randy Savage Sunglasses! Awesome vid too

[@BigBikeBMX]

youngjimjones hahahha🤘

[@cornnewton4804]

Thanks for the education

[@TheTravelVlogger]

nice one! just got a dirtjumper/pumptrack bike and kept having issues with the back wheel moving and making the chain loose. thx

[@BigBikeBMX]

It takes a little while to get the tension right, but it's a game-changer for those annoying landings where your wheel decides to take a nasty turn and start rubbing the dropouts.

[@FormulaMk84]

Cool socks, what style are they? How do you determine the low point and high point of the chain?

[@tasoruha]

Hi thanks for the great video. Wondering what's the reason for nuts tightness. Would it not be too loose so it comes off eventually? Thanks in advance!

[@BigBikeBMX]

Tighten the axle bolts to a normal torque and you’ll be fine. Back in the 80s we had to over-tighten to keep the wheel centered is all.

[@renec5006]

Put mine on last night after watching your video. Took me a while to get everything lined up the way I wanted but I think I’m good! Also one of my tensioner’s was missing the little washer that goes on the end of the tensioning bolt, don’t think it’ll affect anything though.

[@BigBikeBMX]

Those lock washer pin things always fall off. Doesn’t cause an issue with functionality though. Just remember to leave some slack or your cranks/chain/pedals will make gnarly sounds and pops.

[@hawaiianpunch6534]

I have dropout savers on my 90's Quadangle. Do I delete the washers and the chain tensioners will act as a dropout saver?

[@wadewillson2456]

I got a se last year and it’s so hard to align that back wheel right ima hope this helps

[@anis_vgn]

Is that work on Big flyer ? Thanks for the answer

[@WarrenHatton]

Just got my SE Racing chain tensioners for my Big Ripper. Unfortunately axle on the 2014 appears to be too short. Damn

[@anthonydrexler80]

Sweet🤘

[@captainnasty3031]

What up cool channel! Subbed just picked up yellow and red fat ripper. I need a set of pads. Any ideas where to get them

[@BigBikeBMX]

Original - Facebook groups. Sebikes.com sells aftermarket pads that match as well

[@yourmom-zi2ty]

Can u put them on a 2020bigflyer? With the pegs

[@nicky2times2times10]

I love how it sounds. What's that due to? The crank or back wheel or what makes it sound so deep?

[@CenTexCollector]

Freewheel

[@isaactorres5908]

I have 23 inch axle...i really need chain tensioner for it ..but they only make then for 15 mm

[@danielmacatangay3571]

i got a big flyer with pegs installed and will i have to sacrifice the pegs on my big flyer to install these?

[@vice6996]

can you explain finding the high point of your chain? thanks.

[@juniorstarks7494]

What exactly do chain tensioners do? I just bought the all black 29” Big Flyer. It took me a year to get it. I was on a mailing list. You’ll see me ripping around 25th Street in Ogden Utah this summer.

[@BigBikeBMX]

Chain tensioners in theory lock your wheel in place so it won’t move with extra torque when you pedal hard. I rode on the dumbest ramps and sketchy jumps in the 80s without them. They’re just nice to have

[@juniorstarks7494]

@@BigBikeBMX I just ordered mine from The Bike Barn BMX in Lehi Utah. Hopefully I’ll have no problem installing them w/the rear pegs. If so, the pegs are coming off. Thanks @Big Bike BMX

[@melissamowbray9482]

I have had problems watching your old video of the GT dyno compe 29" aka Dave Volelker. It just won't let me watch it on my end so can you please repost it? Btw your really getting us old-timers on to bmx's again.

[@BigBikeBMX]

Melissa Mowbray I don’t have the original anymore. I’ll see what I can come up with though 🤘🙏

[@recorddatdopeyo5561]

Played fine all the way through for me so maybe you're on mobile or need to refresh.

[@arkoutarkout3654]

So easy to to make sure you a real linked up

[@85bigGMC]

On the intro, what phone mount are you using to hold your phone on the bars by the grip?

[@BigBikeBMX]

It’s garbage. None of the ones I’ve tried will hold your phone safely yet. Let me know if you find one though🤘

[@brandonhunter2760]

Can you use these on an SE Fast Ripper that has a rear derailleur, and safe washer? Would you have to do anything different?

[@BigBikeBMX]

The axle will bend. I’d get a stronger axle if you’re adding pegs.

[@robertc7931]

Where can I get em speedy boi looking glasses they look dope af

[@BigBikeBMX]

Oakley Windjacket 2.0 - They're legit!

[@brandanbrenes1026]

Will this work on a mafia bomma 29er?

[@Jake-mo2zi]

Can you install chain tensioners with pegs that are screw on?

[@BigBikeBMX]

Jake in theory you could as long as the axels are long enough.

[@leo_in_the_cut5962]

Great video.👍 but this is useless to me because my rear axel is 14mm.🤒

[@QuebecFietser]

would this work on a bike with multiple acesories on the rear nut assembly?

[@BigBikeBMX]

I wouldn't add pegs etc unless you have enough axle. You'll also bend the axle by extending the weight you'll add with pegs down the axle. In short, I wouldn't suggest it - but I did it on my PK Ripper.

[@miketeiml6515]

Is it normal for the chain tensioners to not be the same on each side with the wheel centered and chain not too tight.

[@BigBikeBMX]

I’ve seen it, but it’s rare. Make sure the tensioner is lined up inside the dropout and centered. I’ve had a few not seat right when they’re new. I’d also check that you haven’t twisted your frame if everything else is right.

[@miketeiml6515]

@BigBikeBMX my fat quad is a pain to get them even, the quads brand new, I will attempt again today to get them even

[@Tdogbikes]

Can you use pegs with the chain tensioners on there?

[@jasonwalker3477]

I don’t think so, because there is not enough space

[@briancatena4152]

This may be a stupid question but do you need chain tensioners on a fast ripper?

[@BigBikeBMX]

Great question. Fast rippers are geared so that mechanism handles chain tension. Geared bikes don’t have normal BMX dropouts.

[@miketeiml6515]

The fat quad is the hardest to get aligned with the chain tensioners, trying to get them even side to side is a pain it the butt

[@jasonrowe9224]

Hey Issac how you goin you can can call me JAY . Jason Rowe is way to formal for me bro . I totally get what you say about your bike being a tool just like a surfboard a skateboard a tennis racquet but me personally I love having the BIGGEST BEST LOOKING BADASS ride on the block and my kids stranger things goose is the conversation starter with old BMXERS until they realise the monster is a modern quadrangle I will send photos when it’s done

[@BigBikeBMX]

Can’t wait to see it!

[@508_ryan6]

If I put these on with my pegs is that a bad idea?

[@BigBikeBMX]

It always comes down to how long your axels are. The tensioners take up threads... then pegs take threads... so you want to make sure with both installed, you have enough thread that the axel nut completely covers the axels. I know SE doesn’t suggest it and it might void warranty. Unless you bike came with both, I wouldn’t do it. If you have to choose, go with pegs if you’re doing wheelies and footwork.

[@bradleypfeffer1716]

I know I'm off subject, but why do you think the Monster quad isn't as popular as the Ripper? Is their any cons about the bike ?

[@BigBikeBMX]

Cons about the Monster Quad? None. If the monster quad was available when I was looking - this would be a monster quad in the video. I love them. I think rippers are more cost-effective and so you see more of them. Also, they’ve been doing big rippers a lot longer.

[@bradleypfeffer1716]

@@BigBikeBMX thanks bro💪

[@bradleypfeffer1716]

Just ordered it🥳

[@BigBikeBMX]

@@bradleypfeffer1716 It's a badass bike bro. Tag me on Instagram when you get it! @bigbikebmx on Instagram.

[@cstalley]

Glad you asked this. I bought a Monster Quad a couple of weeks ago and I love it but was wondering the same thing, why aren't they as popular. Anyway mine is in the shop getting bigger bars, new freewheel and tires. I missed riding it this weekend. I think you'll really like it.

[@_BlueCollarGamer]

what free wheel do you have on this specific bike?

[@BigBikeBMX]

That was a RideOutSupply.com freewheel from 2020. They’ve updated the look to black and silver now.

[@_BlueCollarGamer]

@@BigBikeBMX oh yeah I have the newer one on my Sunday high c. Just picked up this MINT 2010 Big Ripper… think I’m going to wait for theory to drop their new rattle snake freewheel. Sadly it got pushed back to November due to shipping issues and the first rounds are going to bike shops only.. got ALBES just up the road so I’m going to secure one there.

[@BigBikeBMX]

@@_BlueCollarGamer Merritt & Theory are doing it right💪 - It’s hard finding that loud buzz AND still have low drag. That’s legit you live by Albes! I’d love to see that place in person

[@_BlueCollarGamer]

@@BigBikeBMX their show room is awesome and there’s always something new. Real small but real dense. I can always go in there and find something to spend money on if I am bored! Lol

[@SuperJbro]

Can you still use pegs with that on ???

[@BigBikeBMX]

Depends on the axle length. On my stock big ripper - no. On my stock PK ripper - yes. You'll want to make sure you have enough tread on the axle to have both a tensioner and a peg and have the axle nut bolt down and grip all the threads. Good luck.

[@focused40]

Is it possible to have chain tensioner and pegs on a bike?

[@BigBikeBMX]

As long as your axle is long enough. You’ll want to make sure you can see the axle though the bolt inside the peg. It works on my PKRipper 27.5 but not my Big Flyer for example.

[@aka_aadam9552]

Aye are chain tensioner a compatible with pegs

[@BigBikeBMX]

Always depends on if there’s enough axle left after adding both tensioners and pegs. Put them on and tighten the axle bolts - if there’s still axle sticking out of the nut, you’re good. Remember, if your bike didn’t come with them, it could void the warranty. I don’t blame SE or the bike company if I bend something though. I modified the bike and I own the outcome🤘

[@SpacedzOutt]

Can I do it on my fast ripper

[@BigBikeBMX]

Nope. Fast rippers use a derailleur to keep your chain tight flipping through gears. It has a vertical dropout that fixes the axle in place. Chain tensioners work on horizontal dropouts and pull your wheel back to create chain tension.

[@tylerhoeffner8242]

Does this work with pegs also?

[@BigBikeBMX]

Depends on the axle length after you put them on. It’s not suggested, but I’ve seen it work

[@bigcatz74]

Can you use just for show ?

[@BigBikeBMX]

you could, but if you're putting them on for show - take the two minutes to adjust them. Its easy.

[@tuchivlogs2062]

Can I use this for my gts bike ?

[@BigBikeBMX]

Yes

[@joshuawhite8699]

Yes. Brakes.

[@user-jb2jy6tj5z]

Can you run them with pegs ?

[@BigBikeBMX]

Always make sure your axle is long enough so the nut grabs all the threads. If it does, you can.

[@munnymakerz1375]

Is it possible to uninstall chain tensioner ?

[@PumaM90]

Chain tensioners are like herpes. Once your bike gets them they ain't never coming off.

[@luke8343]

The plate inside my chain tensioner won’t back out

[@grandd5913]

I’m looking for a good cell phone holder any suggestions?

[@BigBikeBMX]

I’ve tried quad lock and it didn’t work for me but I’ve heard bikebaggie works well. It’s a top tube bag with a phone sleeve. Let me know if you find something that works!

[@CSRAAW]

What freewheel are you using?

[@BigBikeBMX]

Probably RideOutSupply. It’s been awhile since I filmed this one

[@joeyspindler7858]

Can i add this on my mountain bike

[@BigBikeBMX]

The derailleur on a mtb keeps your chain nice and tight. These are for single speed bikes with horizontal dropouts🤘

[@creesrandom5528]

Same thing on a Big Flyer with pegs?

[@BigBikeBMX]

Yes. Just make sure your axels are long enough👍

[@regitron3873]

What freewheel is that?

[@BigBikeBMX]

This is an Origin 8 Hornet. I like the RideOutSupply freewheel more though. They both have high engagement, but the RideOutSupply freewheel is better though.

[@gioserje2952]

Isaac Irvine I’m getting my free wheel in the mail today

[@droc85ncm]

Brakes please. Mines grind against the rims n slows the tire down. Pls show us

[@BigBikeBMX]

I made one for calipers and show some brake tuning in the fat quad build👍

[@AlpineFall1971]

The glasses are because it’s hot? Did I hear that correctly? I can’t believe SE actually put their name on them.😂

[@Asphaltsquadron]

By high point and low point, you are referring to the chain's tension, correct? Which is high and which is low (taught/loose?) can you elaborate please? I've always noticed it changes when you rotate the sprockets. I used to think it was a stretched chain on my Harleys and dirt bikes, but now I've noticed brand new chains are like that. Just installed two on two brand new project bicycles and they both do that, so I adjusted to a happy medium about 1/2" play +/- On a side note, I used to have a pair of Oakleys like that in the early 90s for snow skiing. They were white frames and purple iridium lenses. Dope! OH YEAH, BROTHER! I just subscribed.

[@BigBikeBMX]

MrAsphaltSquadron you’re 100% right. High is taught and low is loose. Every bike has it. Sounds like you have it adjusted at the right spot too.

[@Asphaltsquadron]

@@BigBikeBMX Thanks, Brother!

[@ygfromig]

can you still have pegs with these?

[@BigBikeBMX]

If there's enough axle length - technically, yes. It'll void your warranty though. Adding pegs means you're standing/jumping on them like you should be. You're adding extra weight futher down the axle so it'll bend faster than if you didn't have chain tensioners. Hope that helps explain why it could work, but why you shouldn't do it.

[@user-wr7ho4rj5v]

Why do you need 1 on each sides??

[@andreyarista4916]

1 to tighten the chain and 1 to straighten the wheel

[@johanthandelgado2282]

Does any one know how to put pegs on a Pk ripper

[@ShesComplicated]

what if i only put one ?

[@BigBikeBMX]

Vincen Casas not sure that will work. You need even tension

[@c._swerve2379]

Can I still have my pegs on my bike with a chain tensioner on?

[@BigBikeBMX]

C._swerve 23 it depends on how long the axel on your wheel is. Good example: my big ripper no. My PK ripper can🤘

[@anhthonyy]

Isaac Irvine would it fit a big flyer you think?

[@c._swerve2379]

Oh I have the big flyer so I’m hoping it does

[@BigBikeBMX]

okAnthony I honestly don’t know. I haven’t seen how long the axels are on the Flyer. I’d ask your local shop before you buy🤘

[@BigBikeBMX]

C._swerve 23 I’d ask your local shop before you buy. They’ll tell you if you have enough axel length for both

[@cesarsaavedra3095]

An you run these with pegs

[@tiniuskristoffersen2894]

Is this tool a nessosery thing

[@BigBikeBMX]

Tinius Kristoffersen it’s completely optional

[@marcellocano1311]

What about with pegs?

[@BigBikeBMX]

That depends on your individual bike and how much axle you have left after adding chain tensioners.

[@marcellocano1311]

@@BigBikeBMX I have a 18’ big ripper so it should prolly be the same amount as yours

[@BigBikeBMX]

@@marcellocano1311 I would say test it. Put the chain tensioners on and see how much is left over. If you have enough thread to put the pegs on and STILL have some thread popping out the axle nut, you should be ok. Now, that being said... It's not designed to have both so ride at your own risk - but that's what I do with pegs and chain tensioners.

[@Zombie123]

"I like to ride my bike" 🤣

[@tiniuskristoffersen2894]

But if i have that on my pegg wont fit

[@BigBikeBMX]

Tinius Kristoffersen doesn’t work on all bikes. SE specifically says not to run tensioners with pegs. Works on my Big Ripper and PK Ripper though

[@chilispoon]

You're just a tool! To that bike.. Otherwise it'd be a stationary🤣 thanks for the video👍

[@jello2066]

Ummm they are upside down? hehe

[@jayephbee]

My axle is not long enough.

[@josephkennedy6188]

5 minutes in before you did any work! Da fuq!

[@douggotley7169]

Every time I see someone wearing pit vipers I assume it’s for satire. I couldn’t ever see why anyone would wear those things or for fashion