How tight should a chain be?

[flw]

Generally speaking, how much chain deflection should there be on the bottom part of the chain between the gears when pressing upwards?

Also is lubing a non-dirt bike chain once a year considered plenty?

[fireguzzi]

Also is lubing a non-dirt bike chain once a year considered plenty?

No, it should be lubed alot more

[Mintbread]

Generally speaking, how much chain deflection should there be on the bottom part of the chain between the gears when pressing upwards?

~20-30mm

[macktruckturner]

I clean and lube mine at least twice a month. Currently slack level is to where I can just barely press the chain up into the plastic slider on the bottom of my swingarm.

[noodlenoggin]

Put the bike on the centerstand or otherwise raise the rear wheel, then rotate it with your hand and you'll see that as the wheel goes around the chain has a "tight" spot and a "loose" spot. You should be able to move the chain about 3/4" at the "tight" spot after you get done adjusting it.

[jstark47]

My manufacturers' owners manual gives a precise chain deflection spec for my bike. Have you checked yours?

[flw]

This bike is at a dealer and is not mine. I'm looking to buy it and wanted to see if the dealer really did anything in the "prep" of the bike.

The bike came with no manual.

[2wheel]

Check the chain before each ride. Lube as required.

[Sev]

About 3/4 to 1.5 inches depending on the bike. I believe that is under load. Meaning if it's 3/4 of an inch deflection while the back wheel is off the ground (to adjust) it'll probably be to tight once you sit on it, and the swingarm moves tightening the chain.

[2wheel]

Some bikes have the numbers on a sticker on the chain guard.