[mechahayai]

I'm new to the ATAS, but I am familiar with adjusting chain tension (spline wear issue) on older ATs. Does the ATAS like a loose chain like the older ATs? Thanks.

 

[Nomadic_adv]

It likes a properly tensioned chain for chain / sprocket wear and suspension movement.

 

[Jetblast]

In my 2019 AT manual, it says 35-45mm of chain play is recommended. I'm not sure if the 18 model is the same.

 

[Bill J]

I'm new to the ATAS, but I am familiar with adjusting chain tension (spline wear issue) on older ATs. Does the ATAS like a loose chain like the older ATs? Thanks.

It has a long swingarm and a longer chain. Even properly adjusted it looks like too much slack when compared to my previous bikes. Follow the manual's instructions and you will be fine.

 

[Sled]

A slightly loose chain is better than the opposite. As a precaution have someone of similar weight sit on the bike and recheck. You'd be surprised how tight it is. At this point I go for at least 25mm of movement. Provided your chain and sprockets are not entirely shagged your not going to derail a 525. Thats the way we have always done our off-road race bikes (520's).

 

[FIRE UP]

I'm new to the ATAS, but I am familiar with adjusting chain tension (spline wear issue) on older ATs. Does the ATAS like a loose chain like the older ATs? Thanks.

Sled,
Unless it's been removed, if you take about 10 seconds and look at the top of your chain guard, near the rear sprocket, you'll see EXACTLY what is required for the EXACT chain tension on your 2018 Africa Twin Adventure Sports model. Hope this helps.
Scott

 

[Sled]

I'm new to the ATAS, but I am familiar with adjusting chain tension (spline wear issue) on older ATs. Does the ATAS like a loose chain like the older ATs? Thanks.

FIRE UP
Experience tells me, from a few bikes, if its to tight it shifts like a dog. And thats what happens if i follow the guide.
Having someone sit on the bike is JUST a simple 30 second test, the chain should still have some movement. In order to avoid spline wear.

Its subjective, indicated here

 

[ride365]

I think the 50mm of play noted on the ATAS swing arm is the tightest you want to go. That's a different number than the standard bikes for sure. Too much is way better than too little as the ATAS can for sure have the same issue as the older bikes if overtightened.

 

[DoubleThumper]

I think the 50mm of play noted on the ATAS swing arm is the tightest you want to go. That's a different number than the standard bikes for sure. Too much is way better than too little as the ATAS can for sure have the same issue as the older bikes if overtightened.

50 mm, eh? How many stones is that?

 

[ride365]

50 mm, eh? How many stones is that?

In the states we call it 2 inches.