Topic: Chain Play

[danramoz]

I know this question has been asked a thousand times.  I checked the archives but just wanted to make sure. 
I've adjusted my chain play to 3/4" but it just feels a little loose.  When I down shift or shift out of gear you can kind of hear the chain slap a bit.  Is this normal?  I only have about 6,000 miles on my 74 CB350f so wouldn't think it would need a new chain at this point.

[SteveD CB500F]

After 6000 miles the chain could well be knackered.  It may have a tight/lose spot. Have you tried checking the tension at various spots?

[danramoz]

No...I will try that.  Thanks Steve.  But with 3/4" play it should have a bit of shake when you downshift..no?

[oldbiker]

When you adjust your chain, it helps to have someone sit on the bike! Chain tension changes at different positions of the swinging arm so with someone sitting on the bike the chain is at its tightest position. At this point 1/2" up and down under finger pressure is fine.

[dpen]

A handy tip to adjust the chain youself is: do it first with someone sitting on the bike.
Then put it on the centrestand.
Get a length of wood and mark an upper & lower line on it (by standing it on the floor next to the chain).
Next time you want to adjust the chain, stand the wood up & adjust the freeplay to the marks on the wood.
It's a very rare thing to get a chain with no tight spots (even new). Adjust your chain at the tightest spot.
Dave

[Quail "Owner of the comfortable k8"]

After 6000 miles the chain could well be knackered. It may have a tight/lose spot. Have you tried checking the tension at various spots?

OK I'll ask, what is  knackered?  Broke in? Broke? Worn out? Danger, Danger Will Robinson???

[Gordon]

knack·ered    Pronunciation Key  (nkrd)
adj. Chiefly British

    Very tired; exhausted.