Drive chain adjusters

[bmw111]

So I'm having an issue with the drive chain on my just delivered Hawk 250. I'm no neophyte when wrenching on bikes, and I'm starting to think there's something funny going on in the rear of the bike, specifically the chain adjusters. I can't seem to adjust them in enough to get some slack in the chain. All the way and the wheel as forward as I can push it but the drive chain is still tight as a drum. So tight I'm afraid to ride the bike other than back and forth on the driveway testing functionality. Yes, the wheel is straight -- figured out to ignore the "hash marks" (that are only on the right side of the swingarm anyway). In order to get the chain run straight, and the wheel straight and true, the adjusters aren't equal length. Looks bogus. But that's the only way to align everything, including avoiding the dreaded wheel rubbing. So, everything's aligned, wheel adjusted forward as much as possible, and the chain is still way too tight.


Did I get a "short" chain? Are the adjusters pranged?


I have ordered a 17 tooth front and 45 tooth rear sprocket -- what chain should I order? Would these replacements fix this issue or is there something wacky with the adjusters? Not long enough?

[NzBrakelathes]

Best change to 520 chain n get longer chain then trim to suit..

[kirbo7106]

Hi,
I replaced my chain on my Hawk 250 from the get go. There are plenty of options with chains that are available. I am running the 17/45 sprockets on my Hawk and I went with this RK chain, it’s 130 link:



I use this to align my chain:



Enjoy the Ride!

[kingofqueenz]

Did you pop 2 links off?

[bmw111]

Originally Posted by kirbo7106

Hi,
I replaced my chain on my Hawk 250 from the get go. There are plenty of options with chains that are available. I am running the 17/45 sprockets on my Hawk and I went with this RK chain, it’s 130 link:

Thanks. So 130 links with the 17/45 combo fits right on, no chain trimming necessary?


I'm just wary of what chain length to buy since the stock chain is supposed to be 130 links and it's crazy tight.


I'm still curious why this is happening on some bikes and others are fine. Maybe a run of "short" chains? Or something with the adjusters?

[Kenstogie]

Originally Posted by kirbo7106

Hi,
I replaced my chain on my Hawk 250 from the get go. There are plenty of options with chains that are available. I am running the 17/45 sprockets on my Hawk and I went with this RK chain, it’s 130 link:

Attachment 20514

I use this to align my chain:

Attachment 20515

Enjoy the Ride!

Originally Posted by bmw111

Thanks. So 130 links with the 17/45 combo fits right on, no chain trimming necessary?

I second that question.... I am soon to be running the 17/45 combo sprockets (and change the Rear Sprocket bolts why I am there) but don't have the chain yet.... I would prefer not to cut
Please let us know... Thanks!!

[bmw111]

Originally Posted by Kenstogie

I second that question.... I am soon to be running the 17/45 combo sprockets (and change the Rear Sprocket bolts why I am there) but don't have the chain yet.... I would prefer not to cut
Please let us know... Thanks!!

I just read (Amazon comment) that this chain (132 link) had to have two links removed to work on a 17/45 sprocket combo on a 200cc Chinese bike.


So I'm thinking 130 link is the sweet spot if we are going with the 17/45 sprocket combo.

This chain (130 link) looks good.


Feel free to correct me, those who have replaced chains/sprockets.

[Megadan]

I ran 128 Links with my 17/45 and 43 sprocket combinations, but 130 links will also work with the 17/45. The only reason I dropped 2 links was to bring the axle forward a bit for better adjustment range with the 43 rear.

[bmw111]

Thanks for the information. I feel better ordering a chain now.

[Kenstogie]

Originally Posted by bmw111

Thanks for the information. I feel better ordering a chain now.

Me too.... I just got mine about a week and half ago and have been doing the MEGADAN's checklist of set up procedures and I am ready to put the tank/Headlight/ all the fairings/seat/handguards on hopefully it will run....

Did put the VM26 and 110 Jet on....did the valve clearance too so fingers crossed.... but going to try stock chain/sprocket just to compare the change....

Unfortunately I am doing COVID-19 stuff and won't be home for a week to get to it..... but at least it's almost ready!!