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Posted: Fri Jul 11, 2008 5:35 am
by Skier
Auto parts stores will also have cotter pins.

Thanks for the encouragement

Posted: Tue Jul 15, 2008 3:45 pm
by RhadamYgg
Well, I successfully adjusted my chain.

Actually, I had to do it twice. The first time seemed to take forever. But after a quick ride I found the chain was on the chain guard again.

I suspect I adjusted it and then put it back where it was. Cold chain and possibly my wife measuring the chain sag - she doesn't have a strong of hands as I do and measured something that looked good, but wasn't.

Second adjustment took less than 5 minutes.

A few things I'd mention in this experience.

Buy a torque wrench... The 24mm wrench that came with the bike didn't have enough leverage to be able to turn the nut on the chain side without turning the entire axle bolt.

Do it in the sun light or bright garage light. My garage isn't so bright and the shadows made it difficult to judge things.

Checking the sprocket inside the chain will be a good indicator if the rear wheel is aligned or not.

Anyway, it was pretty fun and oh yeah, get some hand cleaner... Made for automobile grease. The regular hand soap really wasn't up to the job.

Edit - oh and one last thing - you definitely need a good long wrench to hold the bolt head. I wish it was 24mm like the nut side - it would have made it a little easier to hold still.
RhadamYgg

Posted: Wed Jul 16, 2008 9:00 am
by Dragon on Wheels
Brackstone wrote:If there was a place I could go to learn basic motorcycle maintenence on my bike I'd probably go.

Like a class where you could bring your bike etc. etc.

That'd be awesome.
I don't know where in Jersey you are, but there is a basic motorcycle maintenance course at the middlesex county votech school(somewhat near Rutgers Livingston campus). It's an adult evening course.

Posted: Wed Jul 16, 2008 9:31 am
by TriumphIsMyBaby
It's pretty much like fixing a chain on a regular bike. But of course, you'll need more tools and be precise with the fix.