Drive chain length.

[gschuld]

I?m curious what issues people are having with drive chain control at speed.

For me factory length is 21? from engine to wheel sprocket center lines. Maxing out Modified class wheelbase would have me at 27-28?.  This is minor compared to all the Altered chassis competitors.

Assuming high quality fresh 520 chains/sprockets do I have anything to be concerned about at 27? center to center with say 110RWHP and 150-175mph speed range?

George

[mc2032]

We run a 530 chain, apprx. 180 pins on the sportster without any issues.  We set chain tension with the rider on the bike at ride height (suspended bike, not rigid).  The sprocket centers will change slightly when the suspension loads and unloads so starting at ride height lessens the amount.  If you have concerns, a tensioner might be considered.

[Dakin Engineering]

Use as many methods as it takes to be absolutely certain the sprockets are aligned AND in the same plane.

Adjust chain every run.

One event, one chain.

Sam
(ret.)
#6062