As far as final drive is concerned on motorcycles, chains win hands down as the most widely used drive mechanism. This is because of the sturdy construction and easy maintenance combined with low running and replacement costs. Having said all these, there are still a handful of disadvantages in having chain drive. One amongst them is the amount of tension, the chain carries. The point here is the that a tight chain or a loose chain, both would cause serious trouble to the motorcycle. So the sole reason for this article is to elucidate about the right chain tension and the effects of a loose/tight chain.
Precise Chain Tension:
The chain of your motorcycle needs to be in a precise tension so that it doesn't knock off while riding or creates wear and tear to the Sprockets. Both extremes are dangerous especially when the motorcycle is being ridden at a high speed. It is mandatory to adjust your chain at least every 500 odd kilometers. Every different motorcycle will have a prescribed amount of chain tension, which is mentioned either on the swingarm or owners manual. The chain tension should be set accordingly to have a hassle free ride.
RELATED ARTICLE: Motorcycle Chain Tensioner And Its Utility
Effects Of A Tight Chain:
Having said all these, proper cleaning, lubrication and tension adjustment must be done every 500 odd kilometers to maintain the chain in a proper way. This not only makes the chain last longer, also makes sure you ride safely every time out.
By: Aravind Rb
Precise Chain Tension:
The chain of your motorcycle needs to be in a precise tension so that it doesn't knock off while riding or creates wear and tear to the Sprockets. Both extremes are dangerous especially when the motorcycle is being ridden at a high speed. It is mandatory to adjust your chain at least every 500 odd kilometers. Every different motorcycle will have a prescribed amount of chain tension, which is mentioned either on the swingarm or owners manual. The chain tension should be set accordingly to have a hassle free ride. RELATED ARTICLE: Motorcycle Chain Tensioner And Its Utility
Effects Of A Tight Chain:
* Very high wear and tear for the sprockets and chain.
* Chances of breaking the chain is very high, which might result in a harm for other parts of the motorcycle and the rider as well.
* Reduced suspension travel due to the high amount of tension.
* Power loss due to higher friction (though the amount is negligible).
* Losing control over the motorcycle around the corners.
* Wearing out the rear wheel bearing.
* Handling of the motorcycle is spoiled to a great extent.
Effects Of A Loose Chain:
* Chances of breaking the chain is very high, which might result in a harm for other parts of the motorcycle and the rider as well.
* Reduced suspension travel due to the high amount of tension.
* Power loss due to higher friction (though the amount is negligible).
* Losing control over the motorcycle around the corners.
* Wearing out the rear wheel bearing.
* Handling of the motorcycle is spoiled to a great extent.
* Creates unusual jarring noises when the chain runs over the sprockets.
* Chances of getting the chain out of the sprocket is high.
* Clanging motion along with noise whenever the throttle is opened.
* Losing rollers on the inside of a chain.
* Quick wear of the O-rings.
RELATED ARTICLE: How To Clean & Maintain Motorcycle Drive Chain* Chances of getting the chain out of the sprocket is high.
* Clanging motion along with noise whenever the throttle is opened.
* Losing rollers on the inside of a chain.
* Quick wear of the O-rings.
Having said all these, proper cleaning, lubrication and tension adjustment must be done every 500 odd kilometers to maintain the chain in a proper way. This not only makes the chain last longer, also makes sure you ride safely every time out.
By: Aravind Rb