Question on Chain Length

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Joined
Apr 24, 2017
Messages
694
Location
Detroit
I know that the stock chain has 104 links on 15/39 gearing. But now that I have a quick release rear sprocket I’d like to potentially go up a tooth or two on the rear, and not change the chain. The consensus is +2 links for 15/41, so my question is if +2 is too long for the stock gearing after the chain slightly stretches.

When taking off the stock chain I did notice where the concentric hub was located (one day I’m gonna take pictures of stuff before I move or remove them) but it appeared to be near the bottom of the rotation.

I know I’m chaining the ride height and axle length, which is going to be a struggle to get to back to where it should be. But for now I will deal with that. I guess I could ziptie the new chain together and adjust the length, check the axle length, then remove and see how much more chain length I’ve got. Then take the old chain and calculate the % of elongation, cut that in half, and if that number is less than the amount of free travel, I should be okay? Idk. If someone know the answer you’d save me some math work. Lol
 
The answer to my question is yes and no. Yes, the 106 fits and I can adjust the chain to the proper length. No, there is almost no extra play to adjust the chain after it stretches. The largest I can go with 104 link is a 40 tooth.

The other reason I did not do it was now that the eccentric hub was past the half way mark I was certain the turn in would have been slower due to the longer wheelbase and lower right height.

I cut the chain down another two links. I did however screw up the master link. The plate didn’t go in straight. I re-pressed the high side and now it is even. Don’t know if I should cut it off and try again or let it ride. They are no kinks in the master, and it appears to be even. I need a better micrometer to be certain.
 
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