How important is adjusting the chain on the dirt bike?

Question

I have to adjust my chain because it's pretty loose. The only thing is I don't have a stand yet. I really wanna go riding but don't want my loose chain to become derailed or anything. Will it be fine for another ride or should I adjust it asap.

Answer 1

Two things about riding on a dirt-bike.

One- When crap happens you're usually a long way from home/shop/tools.

Two- Pushing a bike in the dirt is NOT FUN!.



Adjust your chain, use your little sister for a work-stand or find something else.

Answer 2

A milk crate can be used as a stand. Depending some on the dirt bike- you can do a decent job with both wheels on ground. Loosen locknuts on adjusters, loosen axle nut, tighten adjuster on the chain side only to proper chain slack, set lock nut lightly, then roll forward 1/2 turn of back wheel and slap at rear brake. You'll probably find the opposite side of axle now lines up same as the chain side you adjusted. tighten the axle nut and double check, tap brake again and then tighten adjuster and lock nuts. Works on Hondas with the long horse shoe adjusters. Another way is loosen nuts, etc and turn adjuster on chain one turn then do other side one turn, repeat until chain slack is proper, tighten nuts and do a final check of axle alignment and nuts tightened. . .

Answer 3

Adjust your chain before you ride. You can do that on most bikes with the wheels on the ground.



You are supposed to be cleaning and lubing that chain too.

Answer 4

If you think it may fall off, it's long past time to adjust it.



Don't forget to adjust the rear brake as well.

Answer 5

You need to tighten it unless you want the chain to fall off

Answer 6

you dont want it too loose .. getting it too tight is even worse though ..