Rejoin or shorten a broken chain
A thrown chain strands you unless you carry a master link and a breaker — together they weigh less than 200 g.
What you need
- — Chain breaker
- — Clip-type master link (+ a half link)
- — Pliers
- — Rag and gloves
Steps
- 01Get the chain off the sprockets and inspect for bent side plates and damaged rollers, plus any damage to the cases and swingarm.
- 02Push out the pins of any damaged links with the breaker, removing the smallest number of links you can.
- 03Join the ends with the master link, clip facing so the closed end leads in the direction of travel.
- 04Squeeze the clip on with pliers and confirm it is properly seated in both grooves.
- 05Reset chain slack. If you shortened the chain, wind the adjusters forward — and accept the sprocket alignment is now compromised.
- 06Ride gently, avoid full-throttle loads, and check the clip at every stop.
Watch out
- — A shortened chain runs at the wrong tension and eats sprockets — replace it as soon as you can.
- — If the chain took the cases with it, check for oil loss before you ride anywhere.