HELP! Chain tightening and rear axle Alignment Honda ATC 200 1983

[LB7Lover]

I have loosened the two bolts that hold the axle in place and have used the ibolt tensioner to tighten the chain on my Honda 200 ATC 1983. Now I am wondering how to make certain that my axle is correctly aligned so it will track straight and not wear on my bearings. I can add pictures if needed. I have not been able to find any info on this online or in operator/ service manuals. Thanks

[atctim]

There are actually 4 (17mm head) bolts that hold the carrier in place. 2 are slotted, thus the ability to move the axle forward and back, and 2 that are nothing more than a pivot point. the pivot point bolts make sure it all stays aligned.

[ATC King]

Are you used to chain adjustments on motorcycles?

If so, you have a common and valid question.

As already said, there's no alignment to worry about with your ATC200.

A further explanation is the L and R carrier plates are probably one stamping, Honda used to cut costs. There's only one adjuster but both carrier plates have tabs. One is bent over for the adjuster and the other isn't. They come that way from the factory, since two adjusters aren't necessary.

Unless the frame is geewomped, the chainline will be correct.


An added bonus on a hardtail trike is the chain is shorter than a suspended trike and because there's no suspension to change geometry, the chain needs much less slack and runs more efficiently. Less slack also means less slapping around (chain jerk), especially at lower engine speeds, because four-cycle, single cylinder engines have large gaps (rotational degrees) between power pulses. Those pulses are a reason rubber damping devices are used in the ATC rear sprockets and hubs on motorcycles, to lessen the constant loading/unloading stress on the transmission. Most clutch baskets have springs, but that doesn't isolate the transmission from the final drive. Ride two machines back-to-back, one with and one without rubber damping and it's very noticeable, especially on pavement. There's also less chance of throwing a chain, because there's less slack.

At least there's a benefit to not having rear suspension. Enjoy.