Chain length/ axel position in swing arm.

[Bobby ball]

Hey Everyone,

I'm putting a new chain on my bike and I ordered a 120 link to cut down. I'm trying to determine the proper axel position in the adjustment range of the swing arm. I was told previously that with the gearing I'm running that it was a little on the short side and if/ when I put a new chain on buy one longer and cut it down to position the axel a little further back and closer to the "optimal" wheel base numbers. So with the chain mounted up I have two options. The first puts the axel very close to the front of the adjustment range and leaves 9 hash marks showing, which is 2 hash marks ahead of the large center mark on the stamped adjustment on the swing arm. The second leaves 2 more links and leaves 4 hash marks showing, which is 2 marks behind center.

Just wondering what what anyone's thoughts might be? It's an 08' gsxr 600. -1/+2

Thanks in advance.

[Chris Woolsey]

Keep in mind it will stretch pretty good it's first weekend.

[Allan Campbell]

Shorter wheelbase your bike will turn faster and wheelie easier. But will be less stable.
Longer wheelbase your bike will be more stable and less prone to wheelie. But won't turn as fast.
Close to the middle is good.

[Steve Garcia]

Bobby also consider what other gearing you want to run. For example at TWS I run a different rear sprocket than at MSRH. Unless you want to change chains every round, find a length that can suit a range of sprocket sizes.

[Ron Mears]

For comparison on my bikes -1/+2 is about the middle of the range for CMRA tracks. Stock chain length is 112 links, but 114 allows all the gearing changes I need and still have clearance for tire warmers on the really short gearing. If you get a high quality chain you shouldn't experience much stretch from a 600.

http://www.sprocketcalculator.com/

Here is a guide, but its not perfect.