Nothing ruins the hype faster than hitting the pedal, hearing a loud CLACK, and watching your drive chain instantly pop off the sprocket.
Chain derailment is a normal mid-build issue, but fixing it while your ride is up on workshop blocks this week is super simple. Here’s how to lock it in:
The Chain Fix Checklist:
Pixel-Perfect Alignment: Grab a straight-edge ruler and line up your rear axle sprocket with the motor sprocket. If it’s off by even a couple of millimeters, the chain will twist under load and throw itself right off. Get a team mate to double check. Keep it 100% straight!
The Goldilocks Tension:
Too tight? It’ll drain your battery fast and wreck your motor bearings.
Too loose? It’s going to slap around and jump off the second you accelerate.
Just right: Aim for about 10–15mm of total chain slack.
Tune it up, grease it down, and make sure all that power actually makes it to the wheels!
