Tru-Tension Chain Monkey Explained

Maintaining the correct tension in your motorcycle's drive chain is absolutely critical for optimal performance, safety, and longevity of your drivetrain components. Too loose, and you risk chain slap, poor power delivery, and accelerated wear on the sprockets and chain itself. Too tight, and you can cause undue stress on the gearbox output shaft bearings, the chain, and the sprockets, potentially leading to premature failure and costly repairs. While traditional methods of chain tensioning involve guesswork and manual measurements, the advent of specialised tools has made this process significantly more accurate and straightforward. Among these, the Tru-Tension Chain Monkey stands out as a highly effective and user-friendly device designed to take the guesswork out of chain adjustment.

What is the Tru-Tension Chain Monkey?

The Tru-Tension Chain Monkey is a precision tool designed to accurately measure and set the correct slack or deflection in a motorcycle's drive chain. It is a small, yet ingenious, device that clamps onto the chain and utilises a calibrated scale to indicate the precise amount of play. This eliminates the need for the often imprecise 'push up and push down' method, which can lead to over or under-tensioning.

How Does it Work?

The operation of the Chain Monkey is elegantly simple, making it accessible even to novice mechanics. Here's a breakdown of the process:

• Attachment: The tool is designed to securely clamp onto the motorcycle's drive chain. It typically attaches to a specific link, usually between the front and rear sprockets.
• Measurement: Once clamped, the Chain Monkey features a sliding indicator or pointer that aligns with a graduated scale. The tool is designed to measure the chain's deflection at its tightest point, which is crucial for accurate adjustment.
• Adjustment: The rider then moves the motorcycle forward slightly, allowing the Chain Monkey's indicator to show the chain's total vertical movement (slack). The motorcycle's manual will specify the recommended chain slack, usually a range.
• Setting the Tension: By referencing the scale on the Chain Monkey against the manufacturer's recommended slack, the rider can adjust the chain tension using the motorcycle's built-in adjusters (typically located at the rear swingarm). They continue to adjust until the Chain Monkey indicates the correct slack.

Key Features and Benefits

The Tru-Tension Chain Monkey offers several advantages over traditional methods:

• Precision: Provides a highly accurate measurement of chain slack, ensuring the chain is neither too tight nor too loose.
• Ease of Use: Its intuitive design makes it simple to attach and read, even for those with limited mechanical experience.
• Time-Saving: Significantly reduces the time and effort required for chain adjustment compared to manual methods.
• Component Protection: By ensuring correct tension, it helps prolong the life of the chain, sprockets, and gearbox bearings.
• Improved Performance: A correctly tensioned chain contributes to smoother power delivery and better overall motorcycle performance.
• Portability: Its compact size makes it easy to carry in a motorcycle's toolkit for on-the-go adjustments.
• Versatility: Designed to work with a wide range of motorcycle chain sizes.

Chain Adjustment: A Comparative Look

To truly appreciate the Chain Monkey, let's compare it to other methods:

When to Check Your Chain Tension

Regular inspection and adjustment of your motorcycle chain are vital. Here are some key times:

• After Tyre Changes: New tyres can sometimes affect chain alignment and tension.
• After Long Rides: Chains can stretch over time, especially under heavy use.
• Before Long Journeys: Ensure your chain is in optimal condition for reliability.
• Regular Maintenance Schedule: Consult your motorcycle's owner's manual for recommended intervals (e.g., every 500-1000 miles or monthly).
• When Noticing Symptoms: Listen for chain noise (whirring, slapping) or feel for rough acceleration, which can indicate incorrect tension.

Tips for Using the Chain Monkey Effectively

• Consult Your Manual: Always refer to your motorcycle's owner's manual for the specific chain slack specification. This is usually given as a range (e.g., 25-35mm).
• Measure at the Tightest Point: The Chain Monkey is designed to help you find this, but ensure you're measuring the chain's deflection correctly.
• Adjust in Small Increments: Make small adjustments to the chain adjusters and re-measure to avoid overshooting the desired tension.
• Check Both Sides: Ensure the adjusters on both sides of the swingarm are set equally for proper alignment.
• Lubricate After Adjustment: After adjusting the chain, it's a good practice to clean and lubricate it thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Will the Tru-Tension Chain Monkey fit my motorcycle?

A1: The Chain Monkey is designed to be compatible with most standard motorcycle drive chains. However, it's always best to check the specific dimensions or consult the manufacturer's compatibility list if you have a very unusual chain size.

Q2: How do I know the correct chain slack for my bike?

A2: Your motorcycle's owner's manual will specify the recommended chain slack. This is usually measured as the total vertical movement of the chain midway between the front and rear sprockets. Typical values range from 20mm to 40mm, but always refer to your manual.

Q3: Can I use the Chain Monkey to tighten my chain?

A3: The Chain Monkey is a measuring tool. It helps you *determine* if the chain is correctly tensioned. The actual tightening or loosening is done using the chain adjusters on your motorcycle's swingarm.

Q4: Is it better than using a ruler?

A4: Yes, the Chain Monkey is generally considered more accurate and easier to use than a ruler and straight edge. It's specifically designed to measure chain deflection at the tightest point, providing a more reliable reading.

Q5: How often should I check my chain tension?

A5: It's recommended to check your chain tension regularly, typically every 500-1000 miles, or more frequently if you ride in harsh conditions or notice any signs of wear or looseness. Always consult your owner's manual for specific recommendations.

Conclusion

The Tru-Tension Chain Monkey is an indispensable tool for any motorcycle owner who performs their own maintenance. It simplifies a crucial task, ensuring accuracy and promoting the health of your motorcycle's drivetrain. By investing in this tool, you're not just buying a gadget; you're investing in the safety, performance, and longevity of your ride. Accurate chain tension is a cornerstone of good motorcycle maintenance, and the Chain Monkey makes achieving it easier than ever before.