Picked up a 2001 929RR with 20k miles this weekend in SC. Got it for a pretty good price. This is my first sports bike as I'm more of a Harley guy. I replaced the battery, changed the oil/filter, and fixed a small leak in the stator cover (until I order a new one). Took it out for a spin and I notice that when I release the throttle or snap it a little in gear it feels kind of jerky and I hear a bang like something is loose the grabs? I read it could be the chain adjustment, throttle adjustment etc. Its like a "Chooonk" sound. Any ideas?

I'd be checking the chain and sprockets first.

Cleaned and lubed my chain..just not sure if it needs replacing or not...There is no "New Chain" mark and its basically in the middle of the markings. From Swingarm bolt to Axle (Center to center) its 21 3/4" on both sides. My chain has a few tight spots. If I do replace the chain and sprockets (as im not sure if they need replacing too) Im going to to with a 15/44 or 45T combo and a 520 or 530 Chain. Thoughts?

Easiest way to check the chain is to grab it at the most rear point on the back sprocket and pull it back. If you can see more than 1/2 a tooth, it's time for a new chain. Always better to replace chain and sprockets together. Don't want worn sprockets prematurely wearing out your new chain.

Have you checked / adjusted the chain slack? It could be too loose, and possibly jumping a tooth, which will destroy the rear sprocket real quick.

A worn sprocket compared to a new one.



I measure the chain slack, with the wieght of the bike on the rear tire. Usually on the bike's sidestand.
Measure half way between the front and rear sprocket.
Go for 25 -30mm of slack.
I use the center of the rivet as a reference point. First pic I'm about 17mm. Second I'm about 46.
So I have 29mm of slack here.

That is _wayyyyyy_ past worn Jon :-)
You're supposed to replace them while they still have teeth on them :-)

I have about 32mm..so I need to tighten it a little..i have a couple tight spots in the chain so that needs to get replaced. THe sprocket however looks pretty good surprisingly..

Be sure to rotate the wheel until you find the tightest part of the chain, that's where you set the minimum slack.

Yup, that's how I learned first hand - the consequences of a worn sprocket.
I've felt that chuuuunk! too.

I'm surprised the chain could even hold onto that thing.....brutal!

Went ahead and bought a 15/45 combo with an EK ZZZ chain..