Are there counterfeit drive chains out there? Should I worry??

[748cc]

Considering replacing my drive chain as it's original equipment, and I want one of quality. As the prices can be close to $200 for a top brand 96 link 630, could I receive something that clearly isn't what the brand name on the box claims? Are there tell tale things to look for in the link stampings, etc? Any info greatly appreciated.
Thanks in advance.

[gsrick]

Considering replacing my drive chain as it's original equipment, and I want one of quality. As the prices can be close to $200 for a top brand 96 link 630, could I receive something that clearly isn't what the brand name on the box claims? Are there tell tale things to look for in the link stampings, etc? Any info greatly appreciated.
Thanks in advance.

IDK about counterfeit chains, but there are definitely cheap ones out there. You get what you pay for. Look for the tensile strength. Quality chains like to advertise that. Read this, https://www.motosport.com/blog/the-u...le-drive-guide

[hannibal]

FYI, many people often switch to a 530 chain and sprockets.

[Nessism]

530 for sure.

Stock is 15/41 (front/rear) and 630 size. Chain 96 links.

For 530 you need 18/49, and 116 links.

You can find good deals on chains from ebay if you search and wait. Z1 Enterprises or Amazon are good sources if you are in a hurry.

[748cc]

All great info - Thanks guys!! As it turns out, what I thought was the OE chain is actually an RK 630SO. So it had to have been replaced at some point in time, and once all the grunge was scrubbed off it looks better than fine I'll give the 530 conversion some strong consideration (Thanks for taking the guesswork out for me, Ed ). I feel confident in what's on there now not failing me any time soon, so I'll put up at least one more season on her before converting... no harm in shopping now, thou

Thanks again, all!

[bwringer]

There are cheap crappy Chinese chains all over fleaBay and Amazon under all sorts of doofy brand names; avoid these and buy only x-ring chains from well-known Japanese brands. DID or EK are top of the line and well worth the money.

Modern 530 x-ring chains are far stronger and more durable than anything from the '80s.