I know how to adjust the chain but after all these years and all the bikes I've had I've always wondered what is the best method for aligning the wheel is. I've never relied on the marker guides on the swinger and have tended to use my trusty 300mm shatter proof ruler. So for the Blade I've been using the tip of the swing arm as a reference point and measured the gap up to the block that sits on the axle this is assuming that both arms of the swinger are identical. I'm still considering Gilles chain adjusters but do these make a difference to the wheel alignment or do they just aid the adjustment? Other than this, what is the best method using the OEM kit without the need for running plumb lines up and down the garage?
I measure from the similar points as you (I use the far side of the block), but using a digital caliper. I have used straight edges & string in the past but dont bother anymore. I have seen a laser device which sits on the chain, but dont know anything more about how they work etc.
I have the lighttech versions which I highly recommend. Just using the guides on the lightechs I found the sprockets were always in exact alignment. This was done with the front sprocket cover and chain cover off using a laser tool borrowed off a mate. Accurate but not a quick check. To quickly check the alignment I just use a 300mm steel rule and rest it flush on the rear sprocket, looking down from the rear of the bike it should be absolutely parallel with the chain. I’ve come to trust the Lighttech guides, after each adjustment I check alignment and they are always spot on!
