Hi Fellas,
Finally back from indonesia again so looking forward to meeting you all at the next catch up.
I need some assistance understanding and fixing a problem with my chain.
I have a 2009 Suzuki DL650 V-Strom. Great bike love it to bits. Recently after sitting for about 6 weeks while i was away ive noticed a clunking noise when riding slow.
At first i thought it was the clutch or the gears. However, i now know its my chain.
It seems to "bounce" and i think its slack and need to be tightened. but im not sure if thats causing the bounce.
i uploaded a video to youtube here.
https://youtube.com/shorts/ECELaJ71jvQ
https://youtube.com/shorts/ag39zoLMyvI?feature=share
https://youtube.com/shorts/BfFvDRheV_Y
Can anyone give me an idea on 2 thing?
Is the issue the chain itself or does it just need to tighten it.
I have watched an online video of the chain tighening but im not very confident.
Im relatively new to manual bikes. rode scooters for 6 years or so. im a confident rider but maintaence is a new thing. if anyone has some time to show me how to do some of the general maintence i would be really greatful.
Cheers John, I'll give it a shot this afternoon and let you know.
Hi John,
Thank you. yes the slack is consistent. I cleaned and lubricated the chain but I haven't tried to tighten it. I'll see if I can find some info on how to do that on my specific bike.
thank you very much.
ride safe.
Geoff
A 15 year old chain may well need replacement. Is the "slack" consistent? The bike should have a manual on chain adjustment. Relatively simple to both lubricate and adjust it if you have a centre stand. Otherwise have a companion assist by balancing the bike on the side while you rotate the back wheel in neutral to check consistency of the slack and to lube it.
Good luck