Chain slack: follow the manual, not «tighter is better»

An overtight chain quickly kills sprockets, the chain itself and bearings, while a loose one can jump off. The check takes five minutes and is worth repeating regularly, especially after wet autumn rides.

• Put the bike on its centre stand or a rear paddock stand, in neutral, engine off.
• Find the recommended chain slack in the owner's manual: it differs between models.
• Press the chain with a finger midway between the sprockets and measure the free play with a ruler.
• Rotate the wheel and check at several points: chains wear unevenly, so tight spots do happen.
• If needed, loosen the axle, adjust both chain adjusters equally using the marks, and tighten the axle to the torque in the manual.
• Measure the slack again after adjusting and make sure the rear wheel is aligned.