What is normal chain wear?

[sam000lee]

One other thing to consider is ... how tight is your chain after you adjust it?

A chain that is too tight will wear out a LOT faster than one that is a bit loose.

Already been over this but I had been adjusting it overly loose.



I was under the impression that O-ring chains do not really need `lubrication' since the grease is backed inside the chain, hence the purpose of the O-ring's.

[phydeauxmutt]

The purpose of the o-rings is to keep the lubrication in the pivots, where it belongs. The only attention the chain should really need is to clean the crud off it so it doesn't get forced into the o-rings, which might let the lube out. The chain lube should flush the crud away and maybe ease some of the friction where the o-rings rub on the side plates.

[sam000lee]

So I'm getting that chain from Z1, it comes with a rivet master link and I can get a rivet tool on Amazon for ~$30 or buy a clip on master link. Is there any disadvantage to getting the clip on style?

[GSXR7ED]

Interesting thread. I never had a problem with my 630 chain and I have a 530 conversion kit (From Z1) ready to go; just need to R2 it. As always, good info on here.

[mmattockx]

I was under the impression that O-ring chains do not really need `lubrication' since the grease is backed inside the chain, hence the purpose of the O-ring's.

This is correct. You only need to keep an o-ring chain clean and rust free. I live in a dry area so I clean the chain with WD-40 or kerosene and then leave it dry. If I get rained on or it gets wet, I wipe it off with WD-40 again. If you live in a coastal region or other high humidity area you may have to use some chain lube of some sort to keep corrosion at bay.

So I'm getting that chain from Z1, it comes with a rivet master link and I can get a rivet tool on Amazon for ~$30 or buy a clip on master link. Is there any disadvantage to getting the clip on style?

The clip on master link is weaker and more likely to come apart, on a theoretical level. On a practical level they are just fine. I have ran them for thousands of KM's and never had an issue and many others will tell you the same. Do whichever is easier/cheaper/makes you feel secure and don't worry about it.


Mark

[Arronduke]

Hope you enjoyed your trip, good info here
Thanks

[dennco2]

I use X-ring 530 gold chain. When it gets dirty so as to not look so goldish, I spray clean it with kerosene .... then rag it real good ... then apply gear oil like the manufacturer recommends. Rolling resistance is immediately improved and my chain keeps going and going. Approx. 6,000 miles on it now and just did a very minor adjustment. I measure at the bottom of chain and go for 1 1/4" of up and down deflection. I feel best with master links that are riveted on ... not clipped. Riveting has to meet specs or it too can be dangerous. High powered bikes need care and attention to detail.