Hey Grom riders! Maintaining your 2020 Honda Grom is super important to keep it running smoothly and safely. One of the most crucial tasks is keeping your chain properly adjusted. A loose or tight chain can cause all sorts of problems, from poor performance to accelerated wear and tear, and even potential safety hazards. In this guide, we'll walk you through the process of adjusting your chain on your 2020 Honda Grom. It's easier than you think, and with a few basic tools, you can do it yourself and save some cash. We will provide you with the necessary steps and tips to confidently perform this maintenance task. By understanding the importance of chain adjustment and following these guidelines, you'll ensure a smoother, safer, and more enjoyable riding experience on your trusty Grom. Remember, a well-maintained chain not only enhances performance but also extends the life of your motorcycle. So, let's dive in and get your chain in tip-top shape!

Why Chain Adjustment Matters

Okay, so why is adjusting your chain such a big deal? Well, your chain is what transfers power from the engine to the rear wheel, making your Grom go! Over time, chains stretch due to normal wear and tear. This stretching leads to slack, which can cause several issues. A loose chain can slap around, wearing down the chain itself, the sprockets, and even the swingarm. It can also cause jerky acceleration and deceleration, making your ride less smooth and enjoyable. On the flip side, an overly tight chain is just as bad. It puts excessive stress on the chain, sprockets, and even the transmission output shaft. This can lead to premature wear, breakage, and potentially expensive repairs. Imagine the chain snapping while you're riding – not a fun thought, right? So, keeping your chain properly adjusted ensures optimal power transfer, extends the life of your drivetrain components, and keeps you safe on the road. Regularly checking and adjusting your chain is a simple task that can save you a lot of headaches and money in the long run. Think of it as preventative maintenance that keeps your Grom happy and healthy. Plus, it gives you a chance to get familiar with your bike and understand how it works. A little bit of maintenance goes a long way in ensuring your Grom remains a reliable and fun ride for years to come. So, let's get to it and make sure your chain is just right!

Tools You'll Need

Before we get started, let's gather the tools you'll need. Luckily, you probably already have most of these in your garage. Here's a list:

• Wrench Set: You'll need wrenches to loosen and tighten the axle nut and the chain adjuster lock nuts. The sizes you need will depend on your specific Grom, so check your owner's manual. Usually, a 12mm, 14mm, and 19mm wrench will cover most of the nuts.
• Socket Set: A socket set with the same sizes as your wrenches can be helpful, especially for the axle nut, which can be pretty tight. A breaker bar can also come in handy for stubborn nuts.
• Torque Wrench: This is crucial for tightening the axle nut to the correct torque specification. Overtightening can damage the axle or bearings, while undertightening can be dangerous. Your owner's manual will list the correct torque value.
• Chain Adjustment Tool or Measuring Tool: Some people use a specific chain adjustment tool, but a ruler or measuring tape works just as well. You'll need to measure the chain slack to ensure it's within the specified range.
• Pen and Paper or Marker: To mark the current position of the adjusters. This will help you ensure that the wheel is aligned correctly.
• Rag or Shop Towel: For cleaning up any dirt or grease.
• Gloves: To keep your hands clean and protected.

Having these tools ready will make the chain adjustment process much smoother and more efficient. Make sure your tools are in good condition, and always double-check the sizes before you start wrenching. With the right tools, you'll be able to tackle this maintenance task with confidence and keep your Grom running like a champ. So, gather your gear, and let's get ready to adjust that chain!

Step-by-Step Guide to Adjusting Your 2020 Honda Grom Chain

Alright, let's get down to business! Follow these steps to adjust your 2020 Honda Grom chain:

1. Prepare Your Grom:
   • Park your Grom on a level surface. This is important for accurate measurements.
   • Put the bike in neutral. This allows the rear wheel to spin freely.
   • If you have a rear stand, use it to lift the rear wheel off the ground. This makes the job much easier. If not, you can do it with the wheel on the ground, but it might be a bit more awkward.
2. Locate the Chain Adjusters:
   • The chain adjusters are located at the rear of the swingarm, where the axle passes through. You'll see a bolt and lock nut on each side of the swingarm.
3. Loosen the Axle Nut:
   • Use the appropriate wrench or socket to loosen the axle nut. You don't need to remove it completely, just loosen it enough so that the axle can move slightly.
4. Loosen the Chain Adjuster Lock Nuts:
   • Use a wrench to loosen the lock nuts on both chain adjusters. These nuts hold the adjuster bolts in place.
5. Adjust the Chain Tension:
   • This is the most critical step. Use the adjuster bolts to adjust the chain tension.
   • Turn the adjuster bolts clockwise to tighten the chain and counterclockwise to loosen it.
   • Make small adjustments and check the chain slack after each adjustment.
   • To measure the chain slack, find the midpoint between the front and rear sprockets. Push the chain up and down and measure the distance it moves. Your owner's manual will specify the correct chain slack range. For the 2020 Honda Grom, it's typically around 20-30mm (0.8-1.2 inches).
   • Ensure that the chain slack is within the specified range. The chain should have some play, but it shouldn't be too loose or too tight.
6. Align the Rear Wheel:
   • Proper wheel alignment is crucial to prevent premature tire wear and ensure proper handling.
   • Most Groms have alignment marks on the swingarm. These marks indicate the position of the axle. Make sure the axle is in the same position on both sides of the swingarm.
   • If your swingarm doesn't have alignment marks, you can use a measuring tape to measure the distance from the axle to the swingarm pivot point on both sides. Adjust the chain adjusters until the measurements are the same.
7. Tighten the Chain Adjuster Lock Nuts:
   • Once you're satisfied with the chain tension and wheel alignment, tighten the chain adjuster lock nuts.
   • Make sure they're snug, but don't overtighten them.
8. Tighten the Axle Nut:
   • Use a torque wrench to tighten the axle nut to the correct torque specification. This is a critical step, so don't skip it.
   • Your owner's manual will list the correct torque value. Typically, it's around 59 Nm (43 lb-ft) for the 2020 Honda Grom.
9. Double-Check Everything:
   • After tightening everything, double-check the chain tension and wheel alignment.
   • Spin the rear wheel and make sure the chain moves smoothly and doesn't bind.
   • If everything looks good, you're done!

Congratulations, you've successfully adjusted your 2020 Honda Grom chain! Now you can enjoy a smoother, safer ride.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Chain Adjustment

• Consistency is Key: Always adjust your chain in the same spot on the chain. Chains can wear unevenly, so measuring in the same location each time will give you more accurate readings.
• Check Your Sprockets: While you're adjusting the chain, take a good look at your sprockets. If the teeth are worn, hooked, or damaged, it's time to replace them. Worn sprockets will accelerate chain wear and reduce performance.
• Lube Your Chain: After adjusting the chain, apply a good quality chain lube. This will help keep the chain lubricated, reduce friction, and extend its life. Always clean the chain before applying lube to remove dirt and grime.
• Don't Overtighten: Overtightening the chain is a common mistake. It puts excessive stress on the chain, sprockets, and transmission. Always err on the side of slightly loose rather than too tight.
• Use a Chain Alignment Tool: If you're having trouble aligning the rear wheel, consider using a chain alignment tool. These tools use a laser or rod to ensure that the rear wheel is perfectly aligned with the front wheel.
• Consult Your Owner's Manual: Your owner's manual is your best friend. It contains all the information you need to properly maintain your Grom, including the correct chain slack range and torque specifications.
• Regular Checks: Make it a habit to check your chain tension regularly, especially after long rides or riding in harsh conditions. A quick check can prevent problems down the road.

By following these tips and tricks, you'll be able to keep your 2020 Honda Grom chain in perfect condition and enjoy a smooth, trouble-free ride. Remember, a well-maintained chain is a happy chain, and a happy chain means a happy Grom rider!

When to Replace Your Chain and Sprockets

Even with regular maintenance, your chain and sprockets will eventually wear out and need to be replaced. Here are some signs that it's time for a replacement:

• Excessive Chain Stretch: If you find that you're constantly adjusting your chain and it keeps getting loose, it's probably stretched beyond its service limit. You can check this by measuring the chain length over a certain number of links. Your owner's manual will specify the maximum allowable length.
• Worn Sprocket Teeth: Inspect your sprockets for wear. If the teeth are pointed, hooked, or missing chunks, it's time to replace them. Worn sprockets will accelerate chain wear and reduce performance.
• Stiff Links: If some of the chain links are stiff and don't move freely, it's a sign that the chain is worn and needs to be replaced. Stiff links can cause jerky acceleration and deceleration.
• Rust and Corrosion: Excessive rust and corrosion can weaken the chain and make it more prone to breakage. If your chain is heavily rusted, it's best to replace it.
• Mileage: As a general rule, chains and sprockets should be replaced every 10,000 to 20,000 miles, depending on riding conditions and maintenance. However, it's always best to inspect your chain and sprockets regularly and replace them when they show signs of wear.

When you replace your chain, it's always a good idea to replace the sprockets at the same time. Worn sprockets will quickly wear out a new chain, so it's best to replace them as a set. Replacing your chain and sprockets is a relatively straightforward task, but if you're not comfortable doing it yourself, you can always take your Grom to a qualified mechanic. Keeping your chain and sprockets in good condition is essential for safe and reliable riding, so don't neglect this important maintenance task.

Conclusion

So there you have it, guys! Adjusting your 2020 Honda Grom chain is a simple but crucial maintenance task that will keep your ride smooth, safe, and enjoyable. By following this guide and keeping an eye on your chain's condition, you'll extend the life of your drivetrain components and save yourself some money in the long run. Remember to check your chain regularly, keep it properly lubricated, and replace it when it's worn out. With a little bit of care and attention, your Grom will continue to be a reliable and fun companion for years to come. Now get out there and enjoy the ride!