How clearance is needed for the chain?

[Bubble Gum Jr.]

Crappy story is, I let my buddy try out my '06 Ninja 250R and he dumped the bike which resulted in a bent center stand and a spent shift lever. I bought a new shift lever, replaced it and it seems to work fine. However when I was checking out the center stand, I noticed it was bent inward towards the chain and had less than half of inch of clearance. I checked out my housemate's bike and he had alot more clearance room for his chain and center stand. I was wondering, how much clearance is need to be able to safely ride? I plan on getting the stand replaced but not any time soon.

[dieziege]

Do you use the center stand? You might be better off removing it and buying a bike stand that supports the axle.

You don't need much clearance as long as the chain stays adjusted but if it can snag or bind that's a bad thing.