[Jeeper]

I have 400kms on my bike and decided to measure the chain slack as described in the owners? manual. It seems with no downward pressure, my chain is at 56mm. With some weight/downward pressure, it gets to near 65mm. I wasn't sure whether to measure from the end of the rubber ridge but measure from the base rubber to mid link. Or measure from the very end and put the tape on metal swing arm part. Above measurements are from the end of main ridge to mid link (last photo is from metal part).

To me this seems chain has too much slack. I have attached some photos to show what I mean. Next step is to either adjust myself or ask the dealer.

Any expert opinions?

 

[mattswan2512]

Push down with 1 finger in the middle of the chain. This will apply roughly the correct pressure. Then measure from bottom of swing arm to the top of the chain link. Its not an exacting science but will give you a good indication.

 

[Jeeper]

Thanks. I'll measure it again tonight and post a photo. I'm new to bikes, making me a little unsure of what is normal and acceptable.

 

[Jeeper]

Owner's manual says to measure to middle of the link. So it goes again. With no downward pressure, link measurement is about 55mm. With a single finger pressure of about 1.5 kgs (calibrated on kitchen scale), I see the measurement of 63/65mm. Factory specs call for upper limit of slack with 1.5 kg pressure of 56mm (58mm being the very upper limit). So it does seem like its too slack.

In the interest of learning new skills, should I adjust it myself. Or in the interest of safety and warranty, have the dealer adjust it?

 

[wex700]

Sure you can do-it-yourself, but if you're not sure , take it to a dealer.

There are videos on Youtube showing chain adjustment. Search for 'MT-07 chain adjustment', its the same procedure as the XSR700. Also read the comments for additional tips.

Have you got a stand? Because it will be easier to adjust the chain with the rear wheel off the ground and you can check the chain at several places by rotating the wheel. Note, because chains can wear unevenly a chain should be adjusted at the tightest point.

Brian

 

[Jeeper]

I've got a stand coming today. I am confident working on cars and Jeeps, I've never messed around with a bike before. Videos and instructions in the manual seem fairly straightforward. I have the tools, including torque wrench.

 

[Jeeper]

Stopped by at the dealer for second opinion, yes it was sloppy and streched. They fixed it for free in 15 minutes. Without even booking it in.