What is the best way to make sure your rear wheel is lined up correctly on both sides. I know there are hash marks on the side of the swing arm you can use as reference. Is there a better way? and how can you be sure the rear wheel is lined up correctly nd tracking properly.
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Rear tire tracking
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they make a allignment tool that goes on your chain so you can see if it's straight or not.i see two kinds at www.denniskirk.com part#28186and282298
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You can also use straight boards (think 2x4) or string to see if the wheel is lined up with the front wheel. If set correctly, the front wheel will be centered between the boards when they are pressed against the side of the rear wheel.
Personally, I recommend the chain alignment tool, which is manufactured by motion pro and available via any dealership or shop with PartsUnlimited access (although the mail order dealers are probably cheaper).
Cheers
=-= The CyberPoet
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This may be a stupid question, but.....
When one talks about checking the alignment what are they checking? Are they checking the alignment between the front and rear wheels? This makes sense because if the wheels are not aligned then that bike will not track properly. Or are you checking the alignment of the front and rear sprockets? If the sprockets are not aligned properly then you will have excessive chain wear.
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Originally posted by The CyberPoetYou can also use straight boards (think 2x4) or string to see if the wheel is lined up with the front wheel. If set correctly, the front wheel will be centered between the boards when they are pressed against the side of the rear wheel.
Personally, I recommend the chain alignment tool, which is manufactured by motion pro and available via any dealership or shop with PartsUnlimited access (although the mail order dealers are probably cheaper).
Cheers
=-= The CyberPoet
I've heard people saying that aligning the wheels will ensure that you're cornering properly, but that aligning the sprockets will favor chain life... Now in an ideal world the two would be aligned at all times, but it doesn't seem like everyones are (even new ones).
The marks on the swing arm could be really off, though..
Here's another method I found a while back ago:
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Originally posted by tzortnThis may be a stupid question, but.....
When one talks about checking the alignment what are they checking? Are they checking the alignment between the front and rear wheels? This makes sense because if the wheels are not aligned then that bike will not track properly. Or are you checking the alignment of the front and rear sprockets? If the sprockets are not aligned properly then you will have excessive chain wear.
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Originally posted by tzortnOriginally posted by the windIMO you can check alignment for front to back with a staight edge and string but the chain alignment tool is for the rear only.
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Originally posted by the windOriginally posted by tzortnOriginally posted by the windIMO you can check alignment for front to back with a staight edge and string but the chain alignment tool is for the rear only.
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Originally posted by YellowSo what's your take on it, Cyber, should you align the sprockets as much as possible or the wheels?
Cheers
=-= The CyberPoet
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In theory should't you be able to also compare the distance from the rear of the swing arm to the axle on both sides?Help Support Katriders.com via Motorcyclegear.com
"That whenever any form of government becomes destructive to these ends, it is the right of the people to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their safety and happiness." - Declaration of Independance
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Originally posted by zleviticusIn theory should't you be able to also compare the distance from the rear of the swing arm to the axle on both sides?
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Originally posted by zleviticusIn theory should't you be able to also compare the distance from the rear of the swing arm to the axle on both sides?
Personally, I usually press the alignment plates forward in their holders (so there's no slop) and check that way, then go back and eyeball the wheel from behind again. I also count rotations on the tensioners, on the basis that if it was aligned before, it should still be aligned if I turn them both exactly the same number of rotations (and I usually go 1/8th to 1/4 at a time, once every 3k to 6k miles -- the benefit of oiling well and regularly).
Still, I think it's time to buy a chain alignment tool for myself...
Cheers
=-= The CyberPoet
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