First of all let’s correct the myth that chains stretch.
Chains don’t stretch
. The outside measurement of an individual link plate does not get longer with wear. Your bike is not “so powerful” that is stretches the chain.
Why is my dirt bike chain stretching?
Do bike chains actually stretch?
Do bicycle chains really stretch? The short answer is
no, however they do wear in such a way as to cause their maximum length to increase
. Mechanics usually refer to this as chain “stretch.” It is the sign of a worn out chain that should be replaced.
How do you know if your dirt bike chain is stretched?
How many hours should a dirt bike chain be?
I get about 5000 miles/
150 hours
out of a DID 520ATV chain on my dualsport. Keep the chain tensioned and lubricated properly, and make sure the wheel’s aligned on the axle. If the rear axle is off, you’ll destroy a chain/sprocket in no time.
Can you stretch a chain?
How much do bike chains stretch?
The number most commonly agreed on for a worn chain is
one percent elongation between links
. In reality though, you want to replace the chain before this point. So therefore anything past 12, 1/16 inches (0.5 percent) would be the time to replace a chain.
Do chains stretch over time?
The most important factor in preventing chain stretch is lubrication.
If roller chains are poorly lubricated, stretching will take place very quickly
. When a chain has elongated 3% of its original length, it must be replaced.
How do you check if your chain is stretched?
Another ballpark method for checking chain wear is by measuring it with a ruler. Pick a rivet and line it up at the zero mark. Count 24 more rivets and your last rivet should be at the 12′′ mark of your ruler.
If it is off by more than 1/16′′ your chain is stretched to the point of replacement
.
How often should I change my dirt bike chain?
You should replace your dirt bike chain
every 700-5000 miles
, depending on how well you maintain your bike and your riding style. It also depends on the overall quality of the chain, and so taking good care of a high-quality dirt bike chain will make it last longer.
How do I stop my timing chain from stretching?
It is important to
have your vehicle serviced regularly for oil changes
—every 5,000 miles and with the correct oil. Doing so is the best preventive maintenance of timing chain stretch and hop.
How do I know if I need a new bike chain?
How long do motorcycle chains last?
On average, you can expect to replace your chain and sprocket between
20,000 to 30,000 kilometers
, less if you ride fast and hard. However, if you spot any damage to your chain or sprocket, it’s better to just go and replace the prematurely-worn part right away.
Do you need to change sprockets with chain?
If you determine that your chain is constantly getting stuck and lubrication is not increasing the smoothness of your ride, it’s likely time to get a new chain. However,
when you replace your chain, it’s a great idea to replace your sprocket at the same time
.
When should I replace my chain and sprockets on my dirt bike?
If you pull your chain, or a link, away from the rear of the sprocket teeth and there’s a gap between the pair
, then it’s time to replace your motorcycle chain. Side to side movement: The final indicator to tell if your chain needs replacing is if there is side to side movement without chain wax applied.
What size chain do I need for my dirt bike?
Most dirt bikes require
30 – 60mm (1.18 – 2.36 inches)
of chain slack. Carefully manipulate the chain adjusters so that they tension the chain evenly and align with the same reference points from side to side.
How long should a chain and sprocket last?
But chains wear out over time and need replacing. So, how often should a motorcycle chain be replaced? In general, a properly maintained motorcycle can last
20,000 to 30,000 miles
, sometimes more. But, some last as little as 5,000 to 10,000 miles.
How does a bike chain stretch?
How much does chain stretch over time?
The maximum allowable wear elongation is approximately
3%
for most industrial applications, based upon sprocket design. The allowable chain wear in percent for large sprockets with 68 teeth or greater can be calculated using the relationship: 200/N, where N is the number of teeth in the large sprocket.
Can metal chains stretch?
Did you know that
drive chain does not actually ‘stretch’
? Its elongation is caused when material is removed from the pins and bushings. The individual joints in a roller chain articulate as they enter and leave the sprockets.
How often should I lube my bike chain?
Bicycle Tutor recommends cleaning and lubricating your bike’s drive chain
at least once every month
to maintain optimal performance and protection. The chain and drivetrain are typically the dirtiest parts of your bike, and this dirt is bad news for bike longevity and performance.
What size chain do I need for a 7 speed bike?
| Drivetrain* External Width, in External Width, mm | 9 speed 1/4′′ – 9/32′′ 6.5 – 7.0mm | 10 speed 1/4′′ – 9/32′′ 6.0 – 7.0mm | 10 speed narrow 7/32′′ 5.88mm | 11 speed 7/32′′ 5.5 – 5.62mm |
|---|
How do I know if my bike chain is too loose?
To find out whether your chain is too long take a look at it from the side with your eyes being level with the chain.
A loose chain will sag close to or below the chainstays as the chain hangs between the rear cogs and chainring
. The chain might skip as you pedal, or even drop off the gears.
Do necklace chains stretch?
Rope Chains Sparkle and Shine Some have diamond cuts, are very durable, and will last you a lifetime. But,
as you wear them, rope chains will slowly stretch and lengthen
. Normally this doesn’t affect the chain much, and most people don’t even notice it.
Why do motorcycle chains stretch?
A motorcycle chain that keeps getting loose is
usually caused by the rear axle or chain tensioning bolts not being tight enough
. It can also be cause by a new chain not being worn in enough, worn down sprocket teeth, having too tight of a tension, or having the wrong size of chain installed.
