Best way to set up a chain

binge · Emo Kiddy Joined: 02 Jul 2004 Karma :

I bought a pair of tyres the other day, and fitted them at work yesterday. Getting the front wheel on and off was simple enough. Even getting the rear on and off was very easy. But fitting the rear back up and adjusting the chain was only easy because I marked the position first with a marker pen. I'm still not convinced its 100% true because my chain has a "Tighter" spot, and a "Slacker" spot. Its by no means too tight when its goes tight, but its tighter than the rest of the chain.

So what is the best way to set a chain up from scratch, Surely you don't have to sit and count out turns on the chain tensioners?

<|ben|>

alone · Traffic Copper Joined: 13 Sep 2006 Karma :

Why do you need to adjust the chain tensioners? Surely just knock the spindle out and push the wheel forward, then the chain will just fall off? No?

It's how I've always done it anyway. and Mark at Ride In does it that way too.
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rzren · Renault 5 Driver Joined: 29 Aug 2006 Karma :

Most manuals I've encountered specify that you set it up from the tight spot but there's a hair of a chance that yours could be different.

carvell · Scuttler Joined: 05 Sep 2003 Karma :

Set it up for the tight spot.

You shouldn't have to do any counting of turns, there should be marks on the swinging arm.
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Jamie S · World Chat Champion Joined: 28 Dec 2006 Karma :

All bikes are different don't forget.
My TLR has circular cam's and there is NO way of leaving them in the same position , were as my XS250 has bolts with loops and a thing that hooks over the frame thats set even if you take it off the bike.

Wafer_Thin_Ham · Super Spammer Joined: 18 Nov 2005 Karma :

You can also set it up from the marks on the swingarm. Although some bikes are more accurate than other. You can get a laser thingey to make sure it's exactly in line.
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alone · Traffic Copper Joined: 13 Sep 2006 Karma :

I totally misunderstood, how cool do I look?

As stated above, you can get laser alignment tools, there's also a way of doing it with some pieces of wood, but I don't remember how.

Do I get some award for most useless posts?
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Bikes; '06 Triumph Sprint ST 1050 (for sale) - '95 BMW R1100GS

Jamie S · World Chat Champion Joined: 28 Dec 2006 Karma :

Wafer_Thin_Ham · Super Spammer Joined: 18 Nov 2005 Karma :

Finglonga · World Chat Champion Joined: 27 Jul 2004 Karma :