In today’s market there are hundreds of fascinating products that catch our eye for motorcycles, however – there tends to be one item that is most often overlooked which is the drive system and more specifically the drive chain. The chain is a dirty, grungy, and ugly resulting that many riders are uninformed about selecting, installing and maintaining their drive system.  Installing the wrong chain, improper installation and neglect can cause an extremely dangerous situation which can cause bike and/ or bodily harm.

TIME TO REPLACE

Besides the obvious signs of long-term wear, rust, “hooked” sprocket teeth and bound links; there is a Mathematical formula that can be used to tell if it is time to replace the chain and sprockets.

A=# of Links  (We’ll use 120 for an example)
B=.625 for 520 type chain
C=.03

(A x B) = Y
(Y x C) = Z
(Y + Z) = X    X= When the chain exceeds this length – Replace the chain.

(120 * .625)=75
(75 * .03)=2.25
(75+2.25)=77.25"

The chain should be replaced when its length exceeds 77.25" in length.  There are many other methods of estimating when you should replace your chain.  For example – if the chain is able to be pulled off the back sprocket, using a chain wear guide, etc. 

Many consumers ask for the best chain. There is not just one “Best Chain” that each chain manufacturer makes.  There is however, a chain that is “Best” suited for your bike and type of riding.

When selecting a chain, the rider needs consider several factors. 

1. What type of riding will I be doing?
2. What chain did my bike come stock with?
3. Is the chain’s warranty (if offered) applicable for this application?
4. Have I made any modifications to the bike that would increase the torque output?

Most local motorcycle dealers can help answer these questions to determine which chain is suitable for your bike and riding style. We can also help determine a suitable drive system for you and your motorcycle, please do not hesitate to ask. Keep in mind that the most important aspect of selecting a chain is to BUY THE RIGHT CHAIN!  Make sure the chain you’ve selected has correct CC rating at or above the number of CCs for the bike.  For example, you wouldn’t want to run a chain rated for a maximum of 750cc’s if you’re going to install it on a 1300cc motorcycle.  If you have ANY doubts whatsoever about the chain you’re purchasing. It is best to contact the chain manufacturer to confirm that the application is correct.

Also keep in mind that any bike that came stock with an O-ring type chain should always be replaced with an O-ring type chain. The manufacturer of the motorcycle installed an O-ring chain on the bike for a reason and installing a standard or heavy duty non O-ring chain is downgrading from OE standards and should never be done.

It is best to check the owner’s manual for information regarding the type of chain that was stock for that motorcycle.

NOTE- To ensure safe, trouble-free riding and long wear life always install new sprockets when replacing the drive chain. 

The type of riding is one of the greatest factors in selecting the correct drive system for best performance and wear life.

Commuting – A commuter is a rider that tends to use the motorcycle as a true form of transportation usually to work. It is best to purchase the same size chain (520, 525, 530) as the motorcycle had stock. As a commuter it is also best to select steel sprockets and the same sprocket tooth sizes to insure for long wear life of your drive system.

Canyon Riding – A canyon rider is one that usually rides for fun. Many Canyon Riders tend to ride far distances during their rides. However, this rider tends to want some additional performance gains from alterations to their motorcycle. It is best for a Canyon Rider to purchase steel sprockets. In many instances a change in gearing will help certain performance aspects of their machine. Additionally changing the chain size adds some weight reduction benefits. However, when doing so the chain must be rated correctly for the motorcycle size and the chain and sprockets must matching in size I.E. 520.

Stunting – A stunter is usually looking for one thing a high gear ratio which allows for easy maneuvering of the motorcycle. The chain size is usually not a factor I.E. 520, 525, 530).

Club Riding/ Show Bike – In many cases the club rider/ show bike is looking for the best looking and high performance components for their bike. The longevity of the drive system is not an issue however, the correct chain and sprockets be purchased to prevent any dangerous conditions.

Racing Road Course Type – Weight reduction and performance is the main goal for this type of riding. A change in the chain size and gearing is a must. As with all alterations the rider needs to insure that the correct components are purchase to prevent any dangerous conditions.

Drag Racing -  Weight reduction and performance is the main goal for this type of riding. A change in the chain size and gearing is a must. As with all alterations the rider needs to insure that the correct components are purchase to prevent any dangerous conditions.