coaster brake and chain tensioner

GoldenMotor.com
GearNut

GearNut

Active Member
Aug 19, 2009
5,104
11
38
San Diego, Kaliforgnia
Yup.
And nope.

One cannot use a typical tension device like a multi-speed deraileur.
If you can use a motorized bike drive chain type of tensioner and keep the overall chain deflection down to an inch or less, you should be fine. Just remember the side of the chain that has the load on it will go tight and the opposite side loose.

Pedal power = top run tight and bottom run loose.
Braking power = top run loose and bottom run tight.
 
2door

2door

Moderator
Staff member
Sep 15, 2008
16,302
175
63
Littleton, Colorado
As always GearNut is correct. I run a chain tensioner on my pedal side chain on a coaster brake hub. The tensioner is fixed, adjustable but not spring loaded therefore the chain is always the same tension when pedaling or braking. Never had a problem with this setup.
Granted, the tensioner bracket must be rigid enough to prevent any flex or loosening of the chain when braking but if designed right that's not a problem.

Tom
 
Last edited:
You must log in or register to reply here.
Top Bottom