Taking A Link Out Of A Motorcycle Chain
If you're a motorcycle rider, you know that regular maintenance is necessary to keep your bike running smoothly. One of the most important maintenance tasks is taking care of your chain. Over time, your chain will become worn and stretched, which can lead to poor performance and even damage to your bike. Taking a link out of your motorcycle chain is a simple procedure that can help you keep your bike in top shape.
Why Do You Need To Take A Link Out Of A Motorcycle Chain?
Before we get into the details of how to take a link out of your motorcycle chain, let's talk about why you might need to do this in the first place. As we mentioned earlier, your chain will become worn and stretched over time. This can cause a number of problems, including:
- Poor performance
- Increased wear on your sprockets
- Increased risk of chain failure
If you notice any of these issues with your chain, it's time to take a link out. This will help ensure that your chain is properly tensioned, which will improve performance and reduce wear on your bike.
Tools You'll Need
Before you start working on your chain, you'll need to gather a few tools. Here's what you'll need:
- Chain breaker tool
- Wrench or socket set
- Clean rag
- Lubricant
Make sure you have all of these tools on hand before you start working on your chain.
Step-by-Step Guide
Now that you have your tools ready, it's time to take a link out of your motorcycle chain. Here's how to do it:
Step 1: Clean Your Chain
Before you start working on your chain, it's important to clean it thoroughly. Use a clean rag to wipe away any dirt or debris from the chain. This will help you see the chain links more clearly and make it easier to work on.
Step 2: Determine Which Link To Remove
Next, you'll need to determine which link to remove. To do this, count the number of links in your chain and divide by two. This will give you the number of links you need to remove. For example, if your chain has 100 links, you'll need to remove 50 links (100 divided by 2).
Step 3: Use The Chain Breaker Tool
Once you know which link to remove, use the chain breaker tool to break the chain at the appropriate link. You'll need to place the chain breaker tool over the link and turn the handle to push the pin out of the link. This will separate the chain into two pieces.
Step 4: Remove The Link
Now that you've broken the chain, you can remove the link that you don't need. Use your wrench or socket set to remove the bolts that hold the link in place. Once the bolts are removed, the link should come out easily.
Step 5: Rejoin The Chain
Finally, you'll need to rejoin the chain. Use the chain breaker tool to push the pin back into the link that you removed. Then, use your wrench or socket set to reattach the bolts that hold the link in place. Once the link is securely in place, you can use your lubricant to oil the chain and ensure that it's properly tensioned.
Conclusion
Taking a link out of your motorcycle chain is a simple procedure that can help you keep your bike in top shape. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can remove a link from your chain quickly and easily. Remember to clean your chain before you start, use the right tools, and take your time to ensure that everything is done correctly. With a little bit of effort, you can help ensure that your motorcycle runs smoothly and safely for years to come.