Awesome job of updating chain maintenance. I tried to use that tool that came with my bike (without instructions) and couldn't get anything close to just measuring with a tape measure
@@MikesMotorbikeChannel waiting for the video for chain and sprockets replacement) already did the front one at 18k kilometers, but it looks like that rear one and the chain would stand another 18k
Have you looked at the chain adjuster blocks from Dynojet? It would make it easier to check using the telescoping gauge since it is flat instead of round on Harley's block
Great video. Its funny the past few weeks I've been playing that that tool and can not figure out how its suppose to work. I used a wooded pain stick to make a measurement tool. I has no idea how that is how to measure the chain stretch. Gotta put that on the list. My chain still seems to have plenty of life left. i have almost 21k on it.
I believe the Chain tension needs to be measured in 4 locations equally apart to find the tightest spot in the chain with tape. Then adjust the location that is the tightest. Then check again when chain has been warmed after riding
The tip of the tool ( end that goes in the hole of swing arm) to the top edge of that bar is exactly 60mm on my tool so when the notch is hooked on chain the tip should be even with the hole, then as you push up if the bar goes into hole at all it is too loose. It’s a nice quick reference especially if you’re out on the road, but not an “exact” science
in order to have enough slack that the tool goes into the swing arm hole to meet the 60mm mark, I actually need about 75+mm of chain slack. And if I adjust the chain to where the tip of the tool is even with the hole, then it's way too tight. Not sure I follow.
@@MikesMotorbikeChannel I wish I could post pictures that might make it more clear… I just used the tool yesterday to verify slack at 60mm. Then I just took my micrometer and made a 50-60mm “ruler” and when checked the slack is dead on the 60mm line. To clarify top of the link on the 0 push up top of link is right at 60mm mark. Which is the same as when using the HD multi-tool
Hi, I always don't like to adjust my Pan Am because it's too complicated for me? I recently saw a video with this product "Chain Slack Adjustment Tool - BPA Racing " and it looks promising. To check if the axle is set correctly, I use a device that is mounted to the chainring and shows the lines with a stick. When you look at the chain, you can see if it is going straight or if it is running away in one direction. Mike, if you want, I will send you links to these products and you can check them on your channel, maybe they will help you adjust the chain faster .
I just checked out the BPA tool, pretty cool. I also have a motion pro alignment tool that mounts on the top of the chain... removing the chain guard to use it regularly is a pain though.
in theory it should work and likely get you very close, but I would verify with measuring as depicted in the manual from the machined surface to the adjuster.
typically micrometers measure the outside length of a part.. you need something you can get in between the machined surface of the swing arm and the adjuster part that the axle runs through.
Dunlop Trailmax Missions. I would not call them a 50/50, more of a 70/30. They handle well on pavement, very minor vibrations compared to a street tire. They handle the dirt and gravel roads I typically ride in area state forests, but they are not going to have the same performance in mud as a true 50/50. They are very heavy compared to a street tire, and are only T rated for speed (118mph), but I'm still pleased with them.
I was literally just checking how to measure the chain correctly today! Right on schedule! 👍👍
Awesome job of updating chain maintenance. I tried to use that tool that came with my bike (without instructions) and couldn't get anything close to just measuring with a tape measure
I am using BPA-RACING chain tool to instantly measure the slack, but alignment check method is a great catch, thanks)
just checked out that chain tool.. very cool. May need to look into one of them.
@@MikesMotorbikeChannel waiting for the video for chain and sprockets replacement) already did the front one at 18k kilometers, but it looks like that rear one and the chain would stand another 18k
Thanks for the update. FYI, the Screaming Eagle exhaust blocks access to that bolt too.
At least they give you the tool!
Mike, thank you for another great video.
Have you looked at the chain adjuster blocks from Dynojet? It would make it easier to check using the telescoping gauge since it is flat instead of round on Harley's block
Just checked them out, I agree they would make this easier.
Awesome Mike grt video.
Another great vid. Thks.
Great video. Its funny the past few weeks I've been playing that that tool and can not figure out how its suppose to work. I used a wooded pain stick to make a measurement tool. I has no idea how that is how to measure the chain stretch. Gotta put that on the list. My chain still seems to have plenty of life left. i have almost 21k on it.
I believe the Chain tension needs to be measured in 4 locations equally apart to find the tightest spot in the chain with tape. Then adjust the location that is the tightest. Then check again when chain has been warmed after riding
Thanks again !
Hello Mike, very interesting reports you show, very helpful. One question, which additional footrests have you fitted to the crash bars?
Thank you.
adventurebikepegs.com
The tip of the tool ( end that goes in the hole of swing arm) to the top edge of that bar is exactly 60mm on my tool so when the notch is hooked on chain the tip should be even with the hole, then as you push up if the bar goes into hole at all it is too loose. It’s a nice quick reference especially if you’re out on the road, but not an “exact” science
in order to have enough slack that the tool goes into the swing arm hole to meet the 60mm mark, I actually need about 75+mm of chain slack. And if I adjust the chain to where the tip of the tool is even with the hole, then it's way too tight. Not sure I follow.
@@MikesMotorbikeChannel I wish I could post pictures that might make it more clear… I just used the tool yesterday to verify slack at 60mm. Then I just took my micrometer and made a 50-60mm “ruler” and when checked the slack is dead on the 60mm line.
To clarify top of the link on the 0 push up top of link is right at 60mm mark. Which is the same as when using the HD multi-tool
Hi, I always don't like to adjust my Pan Am because it's too complicated for me? I recently saw a video with this product "Chain Slack Adjustment Tool - BPA Racing " and it looks promising. To check if the axle is set correctly, I use a device that is mounted to the chainring and shows the lines with a stick. When you look at the chain, you can see if it is going straight or if it is running away in one direction. Mike, if you want, I will send you links to these products and you can check them on your channel, maybe they will help you adjust the chain faster .
I just checked out the BPA tool, pretty cool. I also have a motion pro alignment tool that mounts on the top of the chain... removing the chain guard to use it regularly is a pain though.
Funny, I didn't get a factory tool kit with my 2022 Panam. Not that I was expecting one, as I didn't get one with my 1988 Lowrider in 1989.
you're not missing out on much, only included a this strange multi tool, a couple screw drivers and torx wrenches.
Great video as usual Mike! Do you think measuring the outer excess thread of the adjustor nuts is an accurate way to determine equal alignment?
in theory it should work and likely get you very close, but I would verify with measuring as depicted in the manual from the machined surface to the adjuster.
Do tell us where you can buy one of those swing arm chain guards ... cause I can't find one anywhere ...😁
Right, these things must be made of super rare materials
Could you use a micrometer instead of the bore gauge?
typically micrometers measure the outside length of a part.. you need something you can get in between the machined surface of the swing arm and the adjuster part that the axle runs through.
@@MikesMotorbikeChannel got it. Thanks, appreciate the info and videos.
Hey Mike what tires are you running. Im almost thru my stock tires and want something 50 50.How do your tires run on off and on hwy?Thanks
Dunlop Trailmax Missions. I would not call them a 50/50, more of a 70/30. They handle well on pavement, very minor vibrations compared to a street tire. They handle the dirt and gravel roads I typically ride in area state forests, but they are not going to have the same performance in mud as a true 50/50.
They are very heavy compared to a street tire, and are only T rated for speed (118mph), but I'm still pleased with them.
My bike came with the chain tighter than you showed your chain at the tightest.
yikes! too tight will limit suspension movement and cause excess wear on the chain.
Yup. Totally worthless chunk of metal. 5 years into this bike and they have yet to describe this "tool" in the owners manual.