Ok what gives (RK chain kit question)

Just did the chain and sprocket job on the VFR. I used an RK kit complete with x-ring chain and F/R sprockets.

Anyways the install went fine, everything is OK, BUT in order to adjust chain slack to spec (shooting for the higher end of the spectrum at ~1 inch play) I have the rear wheel virtually as far back as possible. Anyone else encounter this? Sucks because when the chain stretches, which it will, I won't be able to adjust it anymore without removing a link. :crazy:

OH BTW the kit I used is 1086-980W from RK

 

How many links did it have?
I think it should have like 105? I forget. I had to remove a few links when I put my new chain on.

 

That is an excellent point Drewl.

Amdek,did you physically count the number of links on your old drive chain and the number of links on your new one?

Don't simply assume that because something is new or is supposed to be designed specifically for your bike that it's correct. You always need to verify that.

 

Seems pretty clear that you needed to remove a few links......

It's always smart to place a new part next to the old one you're replacing and compare, paying attention to ANY differences.

In this case, even though your old chain "stretched," it would have been a reasonable guide to the proper length you needed.

 

Sorry to hear. ...and that RK chain is going to stretch! lol

I've only ever run 1 RK, and it needed an adjustment every 500 miles or so, until I was so sick of it I tore it off and put on a D.I.D..

On topic, I'd go back and double check their link count. I've heard of chains coming at different lengths than was was stated on the box (human error and all that).

...either that, or put a big-ass sprocket on the back and just go all "stunter" on us.

 

Well the chain is labeled as 108 Links ( if I remember right). I didn't think about counting the links, or even removing them. I thought a "complete kit" for a specific model should come with the right number of links, but I guess not

thanks for the input everyone! Looks like I need to order another master and remove a few..

 

It's possible to get a new chain set up before cutting to length or installing end link just by wraping it around rear sprocket (already run around front sprocket) until ends meet or overlap. Count overlap links, subtract 1 for endlink and cut. Best to set for new installation with adjuster in forward position but not all the way.

 

Same here I bought a RK chain and new sprokets for my F2 and got about 9000K out of it. No problem just send it back for a new one...ship to the U.S. payed the shipping and the duty (non NAFTA) came to about $90 Canadian, new at the store was about $110...LOL chains have no warranty in Canada. Sold the bike and bought DID after that!

 

In the 80's-90's the dirtbike community swore by RK chains. But, that is no longer the case. I'm pretty sure D.I.D. has proven themselves to be one of the front runners (if not the front runner) as far as quality motorcycle chains are concerned.

 

just don't make it too short. Mechanic did that once on my 900rr and with the front sprocket already a tooth down, it was hard to keep that front tire on the ground, even when I did lay on the tank.

 

ahh, glad someone else noticed this too. I saw a significant reduction in the bikes ease of lifting the front end as the chain was adjusted and wheel base was extended. Wasn't sure if mechanically anything had changed or if it was just me changing as a rider, a couple inches different position on the rear wheel makes a HUGE difference.