# Chain slack

> Chain slack is the total up-and-down movement of the lower chain run measured midway between the sprockets.

- **Also known as:** Zincir boşluğu, Zincir ayarı, Zincir gergisi, Chain tension
- **Turkish term:** Zincir gerginliği
- **Category:** [Chain Tensioners & Sliders](https://motorsikletparcasi.com/en/category/chain-tensioners-and-sliders)
- **Page:** https://motorsikletparcasi.com/en/glossary/chain-slack

The correct slack is given in the owner's manual and, on most models, on a label on the swingarm; on most road motorcycles it is 20–35 mm. The manual also says whether to measure on the side stand or the centre stand.

- **Too tight:** loads the output shaft and wheel bearings and stretches the chain quickly.
- **Too loose:** the chain can jump the sprocket and slap the guides.
- To adjust, loosen the rear axle nut, turn both adjusters equally and check the alignment marks.

If the adjusters have run out, the [chain and sprockets](https://motorsikletparcasi.com/en/glossary/chain-and-sprocket-kit) are due for replacement.

## Related terms

- [Chain and sprocket kit](https://motorsikletparcasi.com/en/glossary/chain-and-sprocket-kit): A chain and sprocket kit is the front sprocket, rear sprocket and chain that make up the final drive to the rear wheel.
- [O-ring chain](https://motorsikletparcasi.com/en/glossary/o-ring-chain): An O-ring chain has rubber rings between the link plates that seal grease inside the pin and bushing for longer life.
- [Swingarm](https://motorsikletparcasi.com/en/glossary/swingarm): The swingarm is the rear suspension arm that connects the rear wheel to the frame and pivots up and down with the shock.

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- Source page: https://motorsikletparcasi.com/en/glossary/chain-slack
- Last updated: 2026-10-09
- Türkçe sürüm: https://motorsikletparcasi.com/sozluk/zincir-gerginligi.md
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