How To Tighten A Dirt Bike Chain

A broken chain is an unfortunate setback for a dirt bike owner, but let us look on the bright side. A dirt bike chain replacement is a cheap and easy fix that you can do at home, provided that you are well-versed in the process. The following article aims to give you a detailed guideline on replacing and tightening a dirt bike chain. 

Dirt Bike Chains: An Overview

Bike chains, in general, act as a pivot to transfer power from the engine to the rear wheel, which is why it is crucial to have your bike chain running and in optimum condition at all times. If you are a regular rider, it is essential to constantly check your bike chain and keep it tightened to maintain the correct tension. This will help prevent snapping and other damages. 

There are various reasons why you need to keep your chain in optimal condition. A broken bike chain could result in a cracked motor case or a bad accident in the worst-case scenario. To successfully tighten your dirt bike chain, simply follow the steps mentioned below:

• Choosing the Right Tools
• What Chain Size Do I Need?
• Tightening a Dirt Bike Chain: A Step-by-Step Process
• How to Replace a Dirt Bike Chain

Before you begin working on your dirt bike, make sure to use the recommended safety gear to prevent any injuries. When working, make sure to be aware of your working environment, and eliminate any potential hazards that could cause harm to you or anyone around you.

Choosing The Right Tools

Before you can begin changing or tightening your dirt bike chain, you need the appropriate tools to get the job done. First, start by thoroughly cleaning your bike. Having dirt and grease on your motorcycle when repairing will not make your job easier. Having a clean motorcycle and bike chain will help it last longer and immediately identify any problems on the chain that you can repair. Once you have gotten that out of the way, make sure you have the following equipment on hand:

• A degreaser
• A grunge brush
• A bike stand
• A large crescent wrench
• Chain lube

What Chain Size Do I Need?

Dirt bikes are manufactured with predetermined sizes based on pitch and length. Selecting the wrong chain size will not just fit improperly; it could cause permanent damage to your prized off-road possession, or even worse, result in a catastrophic injury.

The most effective way to determine your motorcycle chain size is to refer to the owner's manual, which will inform you of the accurate chain size for your dirt bike. Typically, when purchasing a dirt bike chain, the manufacturer will indicate the pitch and links on the chain so you can determine if it is suitable for your dirt bike. The length of a chain is determined by the number of chain links, which means that you may need to remove a few links when getting a new chain.

Tightening A Dirt Bike Chain: A Step-By-Step Process

• Step One: This is where you will use the large crescent wrench we mentioned earlier to loosen the nut on the axle. Keep in mind; the axle can be located on either the left or right side of the bike, depending on your bike’s make and model. Be sure to loosen the nut so that there is no tension.
• Step Two: Use a 12 mm wrench or whatever is recommended by the owner's manual to loosen the lock nuts against the swingarm.
• Step Three: Using your wrench, tighten the tension bolt until you feel an appropriate amount of tension on your bike chain. Make sure to adjust the left side first, adjusting the chain directly.
• Step Four: Typically, chain slack will sit around 1 – 1.30 inches as recommended on the end of the chain guide. You can also check the accuracy setting for this by placing three fingers between the chain and the swingarm, usually at the end of your bike's chain guide. You should feel a considerable amount of tension on your fingers. If you feel that tension, the chances are that you have tightened the chain properly.
• Step Five: Once the chain has been secured on the left axle of your dirt bike, it is time to repeat the process on the opposite side. Usually, there will be markings on the axle blocks and swingarm to guide you so that the notch is on the same side as it is on the opposite side. Failure to do this could result in an imbalance in how the wheel spins, resulting in bike damage or even a crash.
• Step Six: Technically, you have successfully tightened the chain on your dirt bike. Just make sure that all the nuts and bolts have been properly tightened. The final step is to lubricate your chain for a smooth ride. Keeping the chain greased is essential. If you haven't cleaned and oiled the chain already, then grab a good chain lubricant as recommended by your local service provider, lube up, and you are good to go!

How To Replace A Dirt Bike Chain

If a replacement is needed, start by removing the front sprocket cover and the old chain. Make sure not to use your old chain as a reference to cut the new chain, keeping in mind that the chain length will stretch over time.

Line up the master link of the replacement chain and adjust the rear wheel to match that on a swing arm using chain adjusters. Chain adjusters will determine the ideal length that is appropriate for your dirt bike.

Summary

Upon completion of the above-referenced steps, you have just successfully tightened the chain on your dirt bike. With the right tools and a little patience, you have saved yourself a significant amount of money! Make sure to readjust the tension on your bike, as it can stretch and cause infrequencies.