One of them is the chain. Chains come in various sizes and styles, so it’s important that you know how to adjust them when necessary.
There are two basic types: single-speed and dual- or triple-speed. Single-speed chains have one gear ratio, while dual-speed ones have two, making them easier to maintain.
Triple-speed chains can be adjusted for three different ratios, which makes them more complex than the others. In this article, we’ll show you how to tighten a chain on a dirt bike.
What Can Cause Your Dirt Bike Chain To Loosen?
The first thing you should do if your chain starts to loosen up is to check the tension. A loose chain will wear down your gears faster than a tight one.
You’ll notice that the teeth of your chain become worn down over time, especially after riding in muddy conditions.
When you’re done riding, remove your front wheel from the drive sprocket and give the rear axle a spin.
The chain should move smoothly back and forth as you turn the rear wheel. If not, then you’ve got a problem with your chain. To fix it, follow these steps.
What Tools Will You Need?
Before you start tightening the chain, make sure you have all the tools you’ll need.
It’s a good idea to keep track of what you already have and where you bought them from so you don’t waste time looking for something specific. The following list should help you find everything you might need:
Chain Tensioner. This tool is used to tighten the chain. It has a ratchet with an adjustable tensioning screw.
Make sure you buy one with an appropriate size range; if you use too small a wrench, you won’t be able to properly tighten the chain.
Below are the tools you will need to tighten your dirt bike chain:
Ratchet Wrench – A standard ratchet wrench will do just fine for tightening the chain.
Chain Lock – A chain lock helps prevent accidental loosening of the chain.
Chain Tool Kit – An assortment of chain tools will help you loosen and tighten the chain without damaging it. These include a chain breaker, a chain puller, a chain cutter, a ring spanner (for adjusting the length), a chain lube gun, and a chain scraper.
Chain Lubricant – Use lubrication to reduce friction between the chain links and the sprocket teeth.
Bike Stand – Keeps your bike upright during repairs.
Grunge Brush – Gives your bike a clean look after removing mud and debris.
Tape Measure – Helps you measure the distance between the chain and the crank arm.
Chain Adjustment Guide – Helps you align the chain correctly.
Exhaust Plugs – They protect the chain ring from overheating.
How Do You Clean A Dirt Bike Chain?
Before you tighten the chain, you will need to make sure that it is clean. Dirt clogs up the spaces between the chain links and may cause damage to the chain.
Dirt can also affect the performance of the chain as well as causing wear and tear. Before getting started, you should remove any oil or grease that was applied before riding.
You should then wash the parts thoroughly using soap and water. After cleaning the chain, dry it completely before proceeding.
Step 1 – Remove Any Excess Oil Using Soap and Water
Step 2 – Apply Lube Using a Chain Grease Gun
Step 3 – Check That Your Gear Has Been Aligned Correctly
Step 4 – Clean and Dry the Crank Arms
Step 5 – Install the Chain by Starting at the Front of the Motorcycle
Step 6 – Tighten the Chain by Turning the Ratchet Screw
Step 7 – Repeat Steps 4 through 6 until Finished
How Do You Tighten A Dirt Bike Chain?
To tighten a chain, first, check that the chain is not loose by measuring the distance between the chain link and the crank arms.
Once you’ve confirmed that the chain is tight enough, turn the adjustment knob on the ratchet wrench clockwise until the chain starts moving freely.
While doing this, make sure you’re holding the ratchet firmly against the chain so it doesn’t slip off.
When you reach the correct position, stop turning the wrench. Turn the other way to loosen the chain. To adjust the chain, follow these steps:
Hold the ratchet firmly against one side of the chain.
Turn the adjustment knob counterclockwise until the chain moves freely.
Stop turning when the chain stops moving.
Turn the adjustment knob another half turn in one direction or the other to tighten or loosen the chain.
Repeat Step 4 until finished.
How Do You Maintain Your Dirt Bike Chain?
After riding your motorcycle for a while, dirt tends to build up inside the chain. This dirt can be removed by soaking the chain with some warm water and rubbing it with a cloth.
If the chain becomes too dirty, you can use an abrasive cleaner such as WD-40 to keep the chain looking good.
Tips For Getting The Most Out Of A Dirt Bike Chain
Keep the chain clean. Dirt collects in the space between the chain links and can cause damage to the chain over time.
Wash your bike regularly to ensure that the chain stays clean and perform regular maintenance checks on your bike’s gearbox and transmission.
Keep the chain lubed. Oil helps prevent rusting and keeps the chain from wearing out faster.
When applying oil to the chain, apply a thin coat at a time and let the excess drip back into the tank.
Make sure the chain is tight. It is important that the chain is kept properly lubricated and free of debris. Check the adjustment on your chain once a month to ensure that it is still functioning correctly.
Use a chain tool. A chain tool makes it easier to inspect and maintain your chain. It allows you to see if there are any problems with the gears or teeth of the chain.
Make sure that the chain tool has been cleaned before each inspection.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, keeping your motorbike well maintained will help you enjoy its full potential. With proper care, your bike can last for many years.
Remember to always take precautions when traveling to avoid accidents.
Dirt bikes are the perfect vehicle for anyone who wants to get away from it all and enjoy the outdoors.
These vehicles have become increasingly popular in recent years because they offer something unique; they allow people to experience nature without having to worry about getting hurt.
The best part of owning a dirt bike is that you can go places that would otherwise only be available to those with four wheels.
Hi, my name is Ashley Addams and I am an ATV enthusiast. I’ve been riding my quad since I was 16 years old with my two older brothers and sister. My parents were very adventurous and they loved exposing us to unconventional hobbies that kids might not usually experience.
We traveled all over the US finding new ATV trails to explore. While my friends were hanging by the pool with their friends, I was on the thrilling trails with my dare-devil family.
I can only thank them for that, because now 20-something years on, I can teach my kids how to ride their ATVs along the trails that I used to love so much when I was their age.
If you’re looking for a new hobby for you or your kids, I cannot recommend ATVs enough. They’re fun, adventurous, and a great talking point in the office on a Monday morning!
I have created this website in the hopes of showing you all of the best trails around the USA, as well as tips and tricks on how to make the most out of your quad biking experience. So, stay a while and read up before your next big adventure - you won’t regret it, believe me!
![Best Dirt Bikes For 13 Year Olds [Starter Bikes]](https://mntrailriders.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Best-Dirt-Bikes-For-13-Year-Olds-Starter-Bikes.jpg "Best Dirt Bikes For 13 Year Olds [Starter Bikes]")
