Hmm, cool idea....might try that - as long as I can do it without damaging the frame/paint??????????


As for: ".. the front sprocket is supposed to be torqued to 120Nm - the engine only kicks out 58Nm so I hate to think what extra stress is being put through the chain."

Think I spoke too soon: 120Nm applied to the sprocket, which has an approx effective radius of 35mm, gives a tensile stress of 3429N or 3.43KN in the chain (120 / .035).
The tensile strength of a DID 520VM is quoted as 35.8KN so it's not really a problem for the chain - it just didn't look/feel right when I was doing it.

Incidentally, if you can be sure the socket won't slip off the sprocket nut (support socket extension bar with axle stand or similar) you only need to stand on the torque wrench/bar to loosen it: assuming a typical body weight of 75kg (11.8 stone) and a bar length of say 400mm you get a torque of 30kgm = 294.2Nm. Even at 55kg (about 8.5 stone) you would produce about 215Nm.

(Please excuse the anorak moment!! Just thought I'd better eliminate my previous doubts with some maths )