So, we all know that I scratched the hugger 'cos I didn't check the chain tensioning... no, well that's another story

So, grabbed handbook and tools and set about adjusting offending item. Found the adjusty things at the back of the swinging thing... then spent an hour looking for me allen keys.

Got the allen keys... and tried to adjust things. However, on closer inspection it appeared that the markers were both right at the front... and the keys wouldn't turn either. Reaction, bugger... new chain required.

Next day, down to the local garage to book the service and get a new chain. Being smart, I thought I'd just double check the chain thing so says to grubby oik "now, this chain thing. I've tried to adjust it but assume that, as the marks are there, it's out of adjusting and needs changing? I've tried turning the screws and nothing's happening."

Oik replies.. "No sir, you see that's a virtually new chain and the markers are at the start of their guage. Did you think to loosen slightly the nuts that fix the wheel to the swining arm at all?".

Me... "err, no Would that help at all"

Bastard. Every day I think I'm getting bloody dumber

I'm surprised he didn't hit you in the pocket for a new chain anyway.  :O  :laughcont:

I bet you won't make the same mistake twice though.  :bowdown:

A happy ending, BW.

You want to let peeps know what a good bloke that guy is.
I must admit when reading your post-I thought we were going to hear that you forked for a new chain-when you didnt need it.
Dont you have a Haynes manual for the Bandit?
You know you only have to ask if you need a hand with something.

Exactly! and it would up the post count in the workshop section.  :eyebrow:  :bum:

Don't feel too bad BW - one time when I adjusted the chain on my 100cc bike, I ended up needing a new adjuster cos I tried very hard to turn the screw without loosening the wheel nut - and succeeded!

Er - it wasn't the first time I'd done the job, just the first time I'd done it without following closely what the manual said, cos I knew all about it now didn't I?  Lesson learned tho.

Yep, me too!  :blush: Oh, and this "dealer" chap is very fair actually, good prices and I can stand and watch them do stuff if I want. The boys in the workshop are actually happy to chat while they work... indeed, so much so, that they've explained to me why I have the wrong can on the bike... bastards

Put the standard can back on-WTF was wrong with it in the 1st place?
Suzuki spent a lot of Yen developing a can to work well with yer bandy & I can guarantee no after market end can will give you £300 worth of extra performance.
Yes it will sound louder & give the impression of going faster-but it aint m8.
You need a handfull of jets, needles moving, & a dyno to get the best out of a non standard system.

I get a lot of the "power ranger" types coming to the NAM meets with all kinds of expensive cans bolted onto standard headers, & while I am in favour of loud cans as a safety issue I've yet to find a one that REALLY improves performance.

Oops, I'll get me pipe n slippers & me coat................................

Ahh... a man after me own heart...  :blush: