The rules of chain adjustment have been the same for over 30 years. You may wish to consider a variation.

The rule is usually 30mm of overall slack on the bottom rung of the chain, measured at the middle, between the centres of countershaft and rear axel. This is correct but it doesn’t take the weight of the rider into consideration.

The preload of the suspension will take up a little of the slack but the rider, luggage or even pillion will absorb much more and can leave nothing for the terrain.

This is the reason we suggest the chain tension needs to be adjusted to suit the rider as well as the bike.

Our suggestion is have 20 to 25mm overall slack, fully laden.