I don't mind keeping the chain adjusted so that it's at the proper tension, however, even though the manual shows the 1" free play it's difficult to judge that 1". Do you guys have a better way of setting the chain tension? Do you actually hold up a ruler and see if you are within the 1" window that is shown in the picture? I know if the chain is too tight it can cause premature wear of the chain and sprockets so I would like to know if there is an easy way to verify the chain tension is set correctly.
Using a ruler or in my case a steel tape measure was how I originally set mine. What I'm going to say may vary between models and bikes, but.... When I have the bike on the centerstand, pushing up in the center of the lower run has the chain just touching the swingarm on my 2004. This measures about 1-3/8" which is on the loose side of the recommended setting. I don't use the ruler anymore, just push up in the center of the lower run. FWIW. I have put 23,000 miles on since I bought the bike used and have never needed to adjust it other than the original adjustment. Still fits tight to the rear sprocket and the rear sprocket isn't showing any wear. Total mileage on the bike is 43,000+ so I doubt that it is the original chain, but it might possibly be. I lube it with DuPont Chainsaver every 300 to 500 miles. I personally think running the chain on the loose side extends chain life.
Thanks for your input, I'm using the Honda Chain Lube, have it set about where you are saying (where it touches the swing arm). Hopefully that is not too loose.
