New chain problems.

I have just fitted a new chain and sprocket set to my SV and even on the minimum chain tension it has 5mm of free play if that. Obviously this is a bit concerning as i dont want it to snap on me and was wondering if this was normal and how long will it take to stretch a bit? The sprockets are JT and chain is SSS if that makes a difference.

Thanks in advance guys!

Do you mean that when the wheel is pushed all the way forward you have 5mm of play pulling the chain away from the back of the sprocket ?

Freeplay centre lower chain mate.

So you have some free play when you wiggle the chain up and down then ?

little or none which is the problem, the chain is just short of bar tight and was a sod to fit. I ended up having to fit the link, fit the chain to the rear sprocket and then install the wheel as i could not fit the link with the wheel on as planned. And i stupidly thought it would be an easy job after the front sprocket nut!

Ooof that is a bit on the tight side Jimmy , sounds like it may be 2 links short to me . Don`t wanna put the frighteners on you but don`t forget that when you sit on the bike the chain tightens up even more as your suspension compresses , Ideally you want between 30 and 50mm play depending on your weight . I reckon about a weeks worth of carefull riding will give it some stretch . Does the bike feel quite snatchy on and off the throttle ? thats a good sign sometimes that a chain is too tight .

I think you have a pair of links missing, put a blob of Tip Ex on one to start and count them. Then compare with the one that came off.

I have only ridden it for a few minutes around the block and over some savage road humps and the Suspension seems the same and the bike rides well as before. I guess i will have to ride carefully for a few hundred miles!

Yeah take it easy and don`t yank that throttle open and you won`t over stress anything , I highly doubt the chain will snap . A week`s worth of riding will make the chain stretch to a satisfacory amount and all will be good .

[the_lone_wolf]

is the rear sprocket larger than stock? might explain if you have a stock length chain...