Motorcycle

Chain size is shown by a three digit number: the first digit is the pitch, the last two the width. 520, 525 and 530 all have a 5/8″ pitch and differ only in width, 428 is used on smaller bikes. The chain and both sprockets must be the same size. Find the number of links in the motorcycle's data or count the links of the old chain.

The number of teeth sets the gearing: a smaller front or a larger rear sprocket gives quicker acceleration and a lower top speed, the opposite makes the ride calmer. If you change the number of teeth, check whether the chain length has to change too. The safest choice is sprockets with the same number of teeth as the factory fitted.

A chain and its sprockets wear together, so replace them as one set. A new chain on worn sprockets wears out quickly and a worn chain ruins new sprockets. An open chain needs a master link: a rivet link is recommended for more powerful bikes, and fitting it takes a chain riveting tool.