2023 Honda CRF300L Chain Adjustment - Page 1
Article Last Updated: June 7, 2024Next
This is a guide to adjusting the chain on a 2023 Honda CRF300L. It is based on the author’s observations and experience adjusting the chain on a 2023 Honda CRF300L (as well as on many other motorcycles); it is also based on information contained in the 2023 CRF300L Owner's Manual and the official Honda CRF300L Service Manual, 2021 (part no. 61K1T01) which covers model years 2021 - 2022 and models CRF300L/LA/LR/LRA. The author is not aware of any relevant mechanical changes to the CRF300L models for the model years 2023-2024, so this guide should apply to those as well. Check with a Honda dealer if in doubt or get the latest version of the service manual.
Read all of the instructions before beginning. It may be helpful to take photos prior to removing or repositioning parts to aid you later.
Use the correct tools for the job, and take your time.
Disclosure: While the author has attempted to provide correct and complete information, sometimes errors or omissions may occur. By using this document and following the procedures and advice below, the user assumes all risk and responsibility for injury or damage to their motorcycle. The author has been servicing motorcycles for many years (not as a profession) and is mostly self-taught (no formal training in motorcycle servicing). It is recommended that you consult the Honda CRF300L owner’s manual and/or service manual.
Supplies you may need
- rags and/or shop towels
- chain lube
Tools you need or may find helpful
- torque wrench accurate at 88 N.m (65 ft-lb) for the rear axle nut
- 1/2-inch drive ratchet
- 1/2-inch drive breaker bar or long-handled ratchet
- 17 and 24 mm sockets
- possible 3/8 to 1/2 inch adapter
- alternatively, a 17 mm box-end wrench in place of a 17 mm socket and second ratchet
- alternatively, 3/8 inch drive ratchets or breaker bar in place of 1/2 inch drive ones
- 10 and 12 mm open-end wrenches for adjuster bolts and adjuster locknuts
- a 6 inch / 15 mm ruler
Information from Honda CRF300L Service Manual (2021-2022)
Recommended service interval for chain inspection, including chain slack measurement:every 1000 km (600 mi). Service more frequently when riding off-road.
Torque Specifications
Rear axle nut: 88 N.m (65 lbf.ft)
Chain adjuster locknut: 27 N.m (20 lbf.ft)
Service Manual Instructions for adjusting the chain
The CRF300L Service Manual does not cover chain adjustment, surprisingly. You must refer to other service manuals for information on adjusting the chain on this bike or rely on your experience adjusting the chain on other motorcycles.
Owner's Manual Instructions for checking chain slack
The CRF300L Owner's Manual includes instructions for checking the chain slack, but it does not provide instructions on adjusting the chain. Here are the 2023 CRF300L Owner's Manual instructions for checking the chain slack.Chain Slack Specifications
CRF300L/LA: 50 - 55 mm (2 - 2 1/4 in). Do not ride the motorcycle if slack exceeds 57 mm.
CRF300LDA: 45 - 50 mm ( 1 7/8 - 2 in). Do not ride the motorcycle if slack exceeds 52 mm.
- Check the drive chain slack at several points along the chain. If the chain slack is not constant at all points, some links may be kinked and binding. Have the chain inspected by your dealer [really?].
- Shift the transmission into neutral and stop the engine.
- Place the motorcycle on it side stand on a firm, level surface.
- Insert a ruler through the slit in the chain guard.
- Pull up on the chain and measure the slack which is the distance between the top of the swingarm and the drive chain by the ruler. [The diagram illustrates measuring to the centerline of the side plates of the chain (centre of the rivets).]
Next