The chain on the Versys is a DID 520vo114. O-ring. It has 9500 miles on it, sprockets and chain replaced at the same time. Sprockets look good. Lately I'm having to adjust the tension on it. It's out of spec for tension (1.0 - 1.4) in all but 1 small section where it's noticeably tighter where I adjust the tension to the tight side of spec. I think there's only maybe 3 o-rings missing and seems in good shape otherwise, no major kinks. I do have some lengthy intervals w/o lubing (I do need to be better about this). How much wear is too much? There still a fair amount of room in the adjuster to tighten, keep going? Seems odd that I'm still tightening or is this normal? I was hoping to get at least 12k mi on it (December time frame) but it's a budget priced chain so maybe I'm expecting too much?
Time for a new chain?
- Thread starter Heywood
- Start date
stever
Well-known member
What’s the old saying? A chain is only as strong as its weakest link. Seems like you have a couple weak links. I’d replace if it were my chain. I like DID 520 ERV but there’s a couple others close to that quality. Did you do the stretch test? Pull away from the back of the rear sprocket. If you can get a half tooth distance that indicates a fair amount of stretch in the chain.
Yes requires frequent tightening. Just did it today, my maint log indicates I just did it 144 miles ago. It was very loose again.
I used to have a rule of thumb with chains that if Moto Mummy sells it, it's not crap. Don't know if that's still true. I think mid to high end models from the majors are a good bet. Something better than e.g. RK XSO.
I've been out of town and haven't had time to address this but I found this tonight. Does this sound right? I mean.. it's on the internet so it must be true :wtf
Suck a wrench between your chain and rear sprocket by rotating your rear wheel by hand, until the chain along the top of your swing arm is tight. Using the method above, count out 24 intervals, and measure the distance center-to-center between the first and last pin. A new chain will be 15″ dead nuts. If you measure more than 15-3/32″ it’s time to get a new chain.
The 3/32" of wear seems not right. Maybe b/c mine measures 5/16" :wow
Suck a wrench between your chain and rear sprocket by rotating your rear wheel by hand, until the chain along the top of your swing arm is tight. Using the method above, count out 24 intervals, and measure the distance center-to-center between the first and last pin. A new chain will be 15″ dead nuts. If you measure more than 15-3/32″ it’s time to get a new chain.
The 3/32" of wear seems not right. Maybe b/c mine measures 5/16" :wow
ichabodnt650
KLX300SM
2% maximum allowable extension for non 'O'-ring chain and a 1% maximum extension for 'O'-ring chain
3/32" is 0.63% ... a conservative, let's change it soon
whereas 5/16" is 2.1% ... change it now
sjuels
OldMan
afm199
Well-known member
Replace the sprockets as well.
Biga
Near Miss Racing #96
I was going to suggest the same.
And Vortex has good prices on chain/sprockets kit
I would also recommend getting the chain with the rivet and NOT the one with the master link clip.
I've seeing many times the clip flying out during the ride. Just saying.