Replacing the motorcycle chain is a simple maintenance task, but it requires a specific tool. The result depends on your degree of mechanical and tool skill. If you have many doubts, it is better to take the motorcycle to a specialized workshop and leave the case in expert hands.



Before you start, keep in mind that you have the necessary tool, a riveter, plunger, keys or cups and all the necessary elements to carry out disassembly and disassembly.


Security elements

Before starting it is important to have personal protection items, such as gloves, coveralls, glasses, boots and overalls. Take into account that the chain must not be manipulated with the motorcycle on to avoid trapping of upper limbs.


What I need?

A chain mounting kit containing:


A chain breaker or chain pick (to remove old links that are riveted)

A plunger: it must be the same diameter as the chain pins A rivet tool: it is used to close the new chain


How to do it?

Loosen the rear wheel, remove the motor output pinion cover and crown, loosen these items but do not remove them for now.

To remove the rivet from the old chain, the most practical thing is to destroy it with a polishing machine or radial with a metal disk, lean on the crown and give it a few small touches with the radial, be careful not to damage any part, it is normal for some to pop out sparks, so carry out said operation with the proper safety and equipment conditions.

Remove the bolts with the drift and a hammer.

Take advantage of the link to pass the new chain, while removing the old one.

After the new chain has passed, take measurements.

Set the chain tensioner to a low or medium position. If you bought the chain with the same links as the previous one, you should not cut it.

If not, then measure and count the same way you did when you removed the rivets from the old chain. Sure it will do some force, so it is good to keep the crown that you are going to replace, in case it suffers any damage when cutting the new chain with the polisher.

With the correct measurement, insert the hitch link, after internal lubrication.

An envelope with lubricant should be included in the kit to impregnate the seals and the interior elements.

Now install the link from the back, fit the outer retainers and outer plate. With the riveter, bring the plate evenly closer to its position, do not apply too much pressure so that the link moves freely.

With the riveter, shape the ends of the chain bolts so that they are riveted, just like the rest of the links.

With your new chain closed, now just replace the engine output sprocket and crown.

Use a torque wrench and respect the manufacturer's recommended tightening torques. In the case of the output pinion, you may have a lock washer that will need to be replaced or reassembled.


How do you know the correct fit?

To know the correct setting for each motorcycle, it must be placed on the center stand so that the shock absorber and the chain are free. Hence, most brands propose between 40 and 50 mm of travel between the swingarm and what gives the chain itself in its natural position.

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