New chain length

[Buckethead]

Replacing my old chain (and yes, sprockets too).

When I install the new one, I'm assuming I should move the rear wheel as far forward as practically possible to allow for maximum stretch over the life of the chain, yes?

Also, what sort of stretch characteristics should I be looking for with a new chain? I realize that the O/X/Z/Q/W/R rings are the big part as they're what keep the grease in with the rollers, but what about the side plates? Should I expect a lot of stretch at the start and then just a little at a time until the chain is pretty much dead?

[ducpainter]

I set them up just rearward of center on a Monster. It helps keep the front down. A chain will never stretch that much over it's useful life so unless you want the wheel light going all the way forward is unnecessary.

The side plates are pretty much bling. Choose the color.

There will be some initial wear and then very little. When you find you need to adjust frequently...rinse and repeat.

[Buckethead]

Thanks Nate!

There will be some initial wear and then very little. When you find you need to adjust frequently...rinse and repeat.

As I suspected. Much like guitar strings. Break in - useful life - stretching all the goddam time - replacement.

[Gimpy]

I made this mistake when I replaced my chain and sprockets.  This moved the front wheel so far forward that there is no clearance for my aftermarket center stand.   

I'm thinking of adding another link cause I think it would give me the clearance that I need.  But then I'm adding a weak link.

[671M900]

It should say in the manual how many links should be in the chain. My 900 calls for 98 links I think.

[zarn02]

I can't find it on the new California Cycleworks site, though I assume they'll get that sorted out soon.

But a Google search linked me to this on the old page, which has all the OEM info for links/pitch/etc.

http://www.ca-cycleworks.com/shop/catalog/ducati/chain.html

(Someone should really turn that info into a sticky post. I dicked with it for a while, but got frustrated by formatting. Good luck, everyone else...)