1981 gs1100e chain and sprockets

[Tonkawa]

I would guess I need new chain and sprockets. I think they are over 20 years old. I want a quality set but cant seem to locate. I know 15 and 42. Are they using x-link. Never heard of it. $113.00 on ebay with sprockets. Sounds fishy? O-ring? 530 chain? Help

[Jerry]

Don't know if this helps but on my 82 1100E I ordered from Amazon Sunstar sprockets 18 front 50 rear and 530 DID X ring chain and that came to right at $200. so if you can get the same quality on eBay for $113. that's a good deal but I don't think it will be the same quality

[alke46]

check out www.chainboss.com

[mmattockx]

I know 15 and 42.

This is only correct if you stay with the stock 630 chain size. I would suggest converting to 530 chain for the much better selection and pricing. Yes to o-ring or x-ring chain, they last vastly longer as long as you care for them. JT Sprockets (and others) make conversion kits to switch over to 530. I think Z enterprises sells kits with everything sorted.

As for sprocket sizes, you need to use a higher tooth count with the 530 in order to keep the sprockets the same physical diameter and avoid the chain rubbing on the swingarm. 630 chain links are 3/4" pin to pin and 530 are 5/8" pin to pin, so you need:

Front sprocket is (6/5) x 15 = 18 tooth

Rear sprocket is (6/5) x 42 = 50.4 teeth. You can either pick 50 tooth for slightly taller gearing or 51 for slightly shorter gearing. Neither one is noticeable on the bike. I went with the 50 tooth sprocket on my 1100E.

I don't remember the correct chain length, but it should be 6/5 x however many links there are in the OEM 630 chain. On mine I bought a 120 link chain and cut it down to suit because 120 links is a standard length stocked everywhere and the price is usually better.


Mark

[Big T]

I just replaced the sprockets on my 1000 from JT sprockets.
they have a selection of tooth counts DID 630 chain