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How to Measure the Chain Size on a Motorcycle

Motorcycle chains wear out over time and it is necessary to replace them. Measuring the chain in order to purchase a new one is not difficult, but it is vital to purchase the right pitch and width in order for the bike to operate correctly. Performing this simple maintenance of your motorcycle will save you time and money and keep it running efficiently.

Crescent wrench
Flathead screwdriver
Tape measure or ruler
Pen and paper

Instructions

- 1
  Position your bike on its center stand. It is necessary for the rear wheel to spin freely when removing the old chain.
- 2
  Remove the chain guard if your motorcycle has one, by unbolting it.
- 3
  Loosen the axle lug bolt with a pair of pliers. The lug bolt is located on the rear wheel.
- 4
  Rotate the tire forward until you locate the master link portion of the chain. It has an extra clip on it.
- 5
  Take off the extra clip on the master link of the chain with a flathead screwdriver. Pull on the sides of the link to remove it, and then slide the chain out of its pathway.
- 6
  Use a tape measure or a ruler to calculate the exact length of the chain. Write down the measurements.
- 7
  Measure the pitch of the chain, which is the distance between the roller pins. Place the tape measure in the center of one roller pin and measure to the center of the next roller pin. Typical motorcycle chains have a pitch of 1/2 or 5/8 inch.
- 8
  Use the ruler to measure the width between the inner rolling plates--the flat plates on individual links. This is on the inside of the chain.