TimArchy

I'm having trouble getting the chain tight and keeping the wheel aligned while tightening the nuts. it always seems that the wheel is skewed or the chain loses tension by the time I'm done. what is the technique for doing this correctly? Thank you for your patience with a freshman rider.

Track lover

Well...

The way I do it :

I grab the bike from behind by the left chainstay. With that same hand, I pull on the wheel. After, I set the desired tension while keeping the wheel fairly centered. In my right hand, I tighten the rear nut and check that the tension is ok. You will notice at this point that the wheel is loose on the left side of the hub. It is with that play that you center your wheel by tightning the left bolt.

It's not always the way you wnat it the first time. Just do it again. After time, it becomes easy.

roadfix

Tim..........many first time fixies make the mistake of tightening the chain too much. A little slack in the chain will give you a nice smooth quiet drivetrain, provided your chainline is right on. I usually give my chain up to a 1/2 inch of slack, measured by pulling middle of chain up with your finger.

Rev.Chuck

I grab the wheel at the front, by the BB, that way I can hold alignment while pushing against the BB for chain tension. It is better to have a little slack than have the chain tight. You need just a little wiggle barely enough that you would notice it if you rocked the cranks.

chip

Eh kids tight chains do not work?they have to be a little loose to turn,you can get them so tight they can't turn thats no good.