Chain splitter - do I need one?

[Shells]

Having searched previous threads (and been involved in some), I know that when it comes to chains, views differ.

I am doing a short trip (2,5 weeks) to Morocco and Mauritania, not planning to do much riding in the sand. Also, not riding all the way down from London, rather am vanning the bike to Malaga and riding from there and back.

I am not taking a spare chain with me, and am deciding on spares.
A chain splitter has been mentioned, but I'm not convinced
(doesn't a flat head screw driver and a pair of pliers do the job? Or is that only relevant for bicycles?)
Is it worth taking one?

And, controversially, is carrying a bag full of extra chain links worth while?

I was actually just planning to make sure the chain was tensioned properly and was well lubed... but now everyone's getting excited about spares and special tools and... you know how it goes

[Shells]

Yay for Paddy! Thank you!

Tyres new(ish)
Battery reliable
Chain and sproket replaced under 1K miles ago

Think I'll pack the master link, clip and a small length of spare chain and be done with it.

So, will WD40 be sufficient then?

Thanks for chain adjustment tips - noted!

[Mr. Ron]

+1 WD-40. I'm a huge fan! Don't forget to replace the retaining clip for your master link in the proper direction, or you will loose it!

[maria41]

Had my motorcycle mechanics course last monday evening and was chatting to our instructor about my chain.
Advice from teachers: don't use WD40, only to clean the chain. Maintain the chain clean. Take a small tooth brush. Take a mixture of graphite (or any multi purpose) grease, mix with EP80 oil (Extreme pressure) until the mixture is runny but not too liquid. Apply to the chain with the toth brush. Remove excess mixture from the chain with a rag as the excess will spread to you back wheal etc once you start riding.
Apply often and maintain the chain. Apparently your chain will last well. Don't bother with special purpose spray chain pots. Expensive and no better.
Check the sprocket / chain contact where it is at the most tense(back of the bike). Try to pull the chain back. If you can, the chain is starting to go and will need replacement.
If you don't have EP80 oil just apply the grease.

I agree with what was said above, once yor chain start to go it will go very quickly and will eat up both sprockets! It happened to me last september on my way to Portugal. So don't make same mistake. Check your chain every time you plan a longish day ride. It takes 2 seconds and save you lots of hassle!

[Shells]

Hi Maria,
Thanks for your thoughts.
I was wondering about your mechanics course. I have looked into a few, but they all seem to extend over months (going once a week). Is yours a shorter one?
Ideally I would like to find one that runs over a fw weekends and just get it sorted.

[maria41]

Hi Shells!

My current course (advanced Motorcycle mechanics) lasts about 2 terms (around 20 weeks). The one I did last year was 3 terms (around 30 weeks) . BUT the college organises lots of 1-term (10 weeks) evening classes. Check their website (http://www.merton.ac.uk) for details.

I certainly recommend it. ALthough courses are much more expensive than they used to be, but I believe it is general as the govt has reduced contributions to Adult education so all adult courses a ££££ now!

Are you coming tomorrow at the pub meet in Marble arch? We can discuss there.


See u!