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what size chain does my motorcycle need

by Omer Gutkowski Published 3 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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A simplistic way how to estimate your bike chain size:

  • If you have a heavy-duty cargo bike or tricycle, you need a 5/32″ chain.
  • If your bike is equipped with the derailleur, you need a 3/32″ or 11/128″ chain.
  • If you have a single-speed or internally geared bike, you need either 1/8″ or 3/32″. ...

Chain width is measured in eighths and sixteenths of an inch. Motorcycle and ATV chains have a width number of either 15, 20, 25 or 30. If the distance between the two inner plates in a link is 3/8th of an inch, the chain has a width number of 30. 15 width: Measure 3/16” between the inner plates.

Full Answer

How to measure a motorcycle chain?

Method 3 Method 3 of 3: Calculating the Chain Length

  1. Write down how many teeth the big chainring has. Look on the big chainring to find its measurements.
  2. Write down how many teeth the biggest sprocket at the rear has. Check the second number on the sprocket to find how many teeth it has.
  3. Measure the length of the chainstay and multiply it by 2. ...
  4. Divide the number of teeth on the biggest chainring by 4. ...

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How to measure motorcycle and ATV chains?

How to Measure the Size of a Chinese ATV Chain

  1. Inspect the rear of your ATV and locate the chain master link. ...
  2. Remove the small clip securing the master link to the chain with a pair of needle-nose pliers.
  3. Pull the master link off the chain and set it to the side for safekeeping. ...
  4. Measure the chain from end to end with a measuring tape. ...

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How to count motorcycle chain length?

Methods to determine chain length

  • Method #1: Size to old chain (count links) If your old chain was sized correctly, it can be used to determine the length of your new chain. ...
  • Method #2: Largest cog and largest chainring method. The easiest way to determine bike chain length is the largest cog to largest chainring method. ...
  • Method #3: Chain sizing by equation. ...

What is the size of a bike chain?

There are 4 sizes of the internal width of bike chain – 1/8″, 3/32″, 11/128″, and 5/32″: 1/8″ (3.2mm) – some of the bikes with a single rear sprocket. 3/32″ (2.4mm) – some of the bikes with a single rear sprocket, bikes with 5-8 rear sprockets, and derailleurs.

How Do I Know What Size My Chain Is?

How Do I Adjust My chain?

How Do I Know When My Chain Needs To Be Replaced?

How Often Should I Inspect My Chain?

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How do I know what size my motorcycle chain is?

0:222:39How To Measure A Motorbike Chain - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo all we do is we measure from the center of that pin to the center of that pin. That will tell usMoreSo all we do is we measure from the center of that pin to the center of that pin. That will tell us the width measure.

How do I know what size chain I need for my chain?

2:564:06How to Measure Roller Chain - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipIf you have the chain taken apart you can simply measure the diameter of the pin that goes into thisMoreIf you have the chain taken apart you can simply measure the diameter of the pin that goes into this hole. Or. You can measure the inside diameter of the hole.

What does a 520 chain mean?

These are all based on the 5/8-inch (16mm) pitch; and are normally known and referred to by the prefix “5” (ie 5 eighths of an inch). The smallest chain in general motorcycle use is the 520 – the internal width between plates is also based on 1/8 inch. So the “20” refers to 2 x 1/8 inch = 1/4 (6.35mm).

What's the difference between a 520 and 530 chain?

1:255:34Motorcycle Chain Sizes Explained - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo the difference between those two sprockets is quite noticeable when you stack them side-by-sideMoreSo the difference between those two sprockets is quite noticeable when you stack them side-by-side like this the one on the right is a 530 the one on the left is a 520. So the numbers are close.

Do I have a 1/8 or a 3 32 chain?

2:1710:451/8" vs. 3/32" Chains, Gear Ratios & Skid Patches | Too Afraid to AskYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd it goes without saying that a 1/8 inch chain. Can be used with 1/8 inch chain rings and cogs.MoreAnd it goes without saying that a 1/8 inch chain. Can be used with 1/8 inch chain rings and cogs. And yes you can safely use a 1/8 inch chain. With 3 over 32 components.

Should the thicker chain be longer or shorter?

The thinner the chain, the shorter you wear it. The thicker the chain, the longer you wear it. Step three: Mix and Match chains of different lengths and thicknesses.

How do I know if my chain is 520 or 525?

The 5 part just describes the distance between the centers of the link pins (or wherever on the links, basically how long a link is) and the next two numbers describe the width of the chain. So a 520 chain is going to be narrower than a 525(and thus require a narrower front and rear sprocket) and lighter...

Can a 525 chain fit a 520 sprocket?

3:455:26520 chain vs 525 07 GSXR 750 - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo 525 sprocket see how it doesn't quite fit in there. Because it's it's much bigger of a chain. SoMoreSo 525 sprocket see how it doesn't quite fit in there. Because it's it's much bigger of a chain. So and that just shows you by the way don't try and put a 520 chain on 525 sprockets.

What is the best motorcycle chain?

The 4 Best Motorcycle Chains​1. RK Racing Chain 520-SO-120 120-Links O-Ring Chain with Connecting Link.RK Racing Chain GB520XSO-120 120-Links Gold X-Ring Chain with Connecting Link.DID 520ERT2 – 120 link Gold Chain with Connecting Link.Renthal C294 R3-2 O-Ring 520-Pitch 120-Links Chain.

How do you tell if I have a 520 chain?

If the width between the chains plates is 6.35mm than you have a 520. If the width betwwen the plates is 7.94mm than you have a 525.

Will a 530 chain fit a 525 sprocket?

The 530 is wider and will not sit properly on the 525 sprockets.

What does 530 mean on a motorcycle chain?

Contrary to popular belief, 530 and 630 chains are the same overall width. A 530 or 630 O-Ring chain will measure approximately 1.070" across the rivets outside to outside. ( The master link will be wider by approximately .065") The GUYZ.

How do I know what chain to buy?

How do I choose? Bike chain selection is firstly decided based upon the "speed" of the chain; this is because it determines the width of the chain. An 11 speed chain for example is narrower than a 9 speed chain, as the sprockets on the 11 speed cassette have a narrower spacing between them.

How long is a 20 inch chain on a man?

The most common length of necklace for men, the 20 inch chain will likely fall between the first and second button on a man's shirt or at the collarbone. This length necklace can be worn inside or outside a shirt.

How to determine the width of a chain for a bike?

The proper width is determined by the number of rear sprockets your bike has – the more rear sprockets are spaced close together, the narrower chain should be used.

What to use to measure bike chain size?

On the contrary, if you don’t have your old chain, you can also use the largest cog and largest chainring method to measure your bike’s chain size.

How To Find The Proper Length Of the Chain?

If your old chain still holds a great shape with proper length, you can use it for comprising when buying your new chain .

How to put chain in 5 o'clock?

Take the chain and pass it through the front derailleur cog and keep it put in the 5 o’clock position.

How to calculate the length of a bike chain?

The total length of the bike chain is calculated by multiplying the number of links with a 1/2 inch link pitch.

What is the pitch of a bike chain?

The bike chain link pitch (distance between pin centers) is standardized and equals 1/2 inch or 12.7 millimeters. Historically there were also other pitch sizes, but the 0.5-inch pitch is standard these days.

What does L mean on a chain?

L= Length of the chain in inches.

How much does it cost to replace a motorcycle chain?

Chains can range in price from $20 for a plain chain for a small, lightweight motorcycle to over $200 for something like a quality O-ring chain for a bigger, more powerful bike. O-ring chains have lubrication built into the links, held in by rubber O-rings between the side plates. The O-ring chains cost more but also last longer.

What is the purpose of a lower chain guide on an off road bike?

Off-road bikes with lots of suspension travel usually have other pieces, such as upper and lower sliders or rollers and possibly a lower chain guide, to help keep chain tension right. Check them for wear while you're checking your chain and sprockets.

Why is chain tension important?

Chain tension is also very important. Too tight puts a ton of stress on your transmission bearings and seals, as well as accelerating the wear of the chain and sprockets themselves. Adjust your chain tension as recommended in your manual or by the sticker on your swingarm or chain guard.

What are the advantages of chain drive?

One of the advantages of chain drive over other forms of final drive in motorcycles is that chains and sprockets make it easy to change the overall gearing. For example, if you feel your motorcycle is "screaming" at highway speeds, you can increase the size of the front sprocket by a tooth or decrease the size of the rear sprocket and the engine will be turning slower at a given speed. The tradeoff is you'll lose some acceleration. Going the other way will increase acceleration. If you fit a larger sprocket to either end, just make sure you have enough clearance. In any case, you can always use the stock sprocket sizes when buying new ones.

How to check if a KTM chain is worn?

If the chain is worn, you'll reveal about half a tooth of the sprocket. A new chain will wrap around the sprocket snugly and won't pull away.

What is the service manual for a 1970 Yamaha?

The service manual for my 1970 Yamaha shows a more traditional approach for checking chains and sprockets for excessive wear. Photo by Joe Zito.

How much does an O-ring chain cost?

The O-ring chains cost more but also last longer. Front and rear sprockets cost anywhere from $50 to over $250 a set, depending on size, materials and their expected lifespan.

How Do I Know What Size My Chain Is?

The easiest way to tell is by taking a look at your chain. Almost all manufacturers will stamp the size on the chain itself. You can usually find it clearly marked on the outer links.

How Do I Adjust My chain?

The amount of slack your chain needs is very specific to the sprocket and bike you have. Always consult your owner’s manual for specific guidelines on fitting a new chain.

How Do I Know When My Chain Needs To Be Replaced?

You’ll usually be able to tell that it’s time to replace your chain when it’s out of adjustment. You shouldn’t have to continually adjust your chain once it’s fitted.

How Often Should I Inspect My Chain?

It is a good rule of thumb to inspect your chain before every ride. A quick look can make a huge difference when it comes to your safety. You should clean your chain periodically as you see necessary. This could be once a month for regular riders, or it could be once every few months for garage-kept bikes.

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1.Motorcycle Chain Sizes - Complete list for all models

Url:https://motoprove.com/motorcycle-chain-sizes/

21 hours ago  · Modern motorcycles only use about ten standardized chain pitches today. Your bike is probably going to fall under one of these chain specs: 420 428 520 525 530 How Do I …

2.Bike Chain Size Guide And Chart » StateCyclist

Url:https://www.statecyclist.com/bike-chain-size-chart/

36 hours ago What Bike Chain Do I Need. Bike chains come in a variety of sizes, so it’s important to know what size chain you need for your bike. Most bikes use a standard 1/2″ x 3/32″ chain, but some …

3.How to determine when chain and sprockets need to be …

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9 hours ago  · Good news is you can return the unused chain if you end up needing a different size. You can error on the longer side and cut the chain down if need be. We carry chain …

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