I was fitting a chain to my new build 2008 coilair when I realised I didn’t know how much spare chain to leave as it’s effective chain length grows when fully compressed. Has anyone any ideas?
Your thoughts are much appreciated.

Coilair? Let the air out the shock and compress it then measure chain?

Thanks for that. I’d thought of doing that but wondered if anyone knew of a definitive number of links to allow?

The pivot is just above and behind the bb, right? If that’s the case its not going to grow too much at full travel and how likely are you to achieve full travel in the 2 biggest rings/sprockets? I wouldn’t worry too much, maybe just add in 1 more link.

Have taken your advice. With all the air out and a good squash I don’t see how the chain could ‘grow’ any more. Added in an extra link just in case. The way I ride I’d be amazed if I ever get full travel anyway.

Nice bit on park tool site about thispark tool chain length
In short large front cog with large rear cog and compress suspension if you have it then add two links to tight / fully extended mech chain length