When are you supposed to change out your chain? I have almost 20k miles on mine and I still have plenty of adjustment room. Is there a certain point to change it? Or do I just keep it until I run out of adjustment and use that as the indicator to buy a new one.

Thanks,
C

There is a wear spec in the service manual, something like: measure the distance between 20 links if the measurement exceeds the spec value time to replace chain

FROM THE 2008 SM
•Remove the chain cover (see Drive Chain Removal in the Final Drive chapter).

•Rotate the rear wheel to inspect the drive chain for dam- aged rollers, and loose pins and links. If there is any irregularity, replace the drive chain.

•Lubricate the drive chain if it appears dry. Stretch the chain taut by hanging a 98 N (10 kg, 20 lb)
weight [A] on the chain.

•Measure the length of 20 links [B] on the straight part [C] of the chain from the pin center of the 1st pin to the pin center of the 21st pin. Since the chain may wear unevenly, take measurements at several places. If any measurements exceed the service limit, replace the chain. Also, replace the front and rear sprockets when the drive chain is replaced.

Drive Chain 20-link Length Standard: 317.5 ~ 318.2 mm (12.50 ~ 12.53 in.)
Service Limit: 323 mm (12.7 in.)

notice weights hung on chain, steel rule on top run.

* Last updated by: Rook on 7/24/2013 @ 1:50 PM *

Very useful guys, thanks!

C