Motorcycle Repair: Static Cam Chain Adjustment, honda cb750c, cam chains

Question
I have a 81 Honda CB750C that I am in the process of adjusting the valves. However my question is: How do I check the cam chains while the valve cover is off? I want to check to make sure they are still in good condition before the cover goes back on. The bike has 14,000 miles  with no chain noise last time rode. I really feel the auto adjusters only do so much. What do I check for?

Thanks! Gary

Answer
There's not really any way to look at the chain and tell if it's okay or not.  Sometimes if it's real bad you can lift the link off the center of the sprocket.  If you can feel or see and significant motion in the chain as you lift it off the sprocket, there's too much wear and it should be replaced.  If you had the chain out, you could measure it's total length and determine if it was worn out.  To be honest, with only 14,000 miles, I'd be absolutely surprised if it had any any significant wear.  If it's quiet, it's working perfectly.

Regards
Rich