Frequently Asked Questions:

Q. Can I use a connecting link from a different type of chain?

A. No, connecting links are specifically designed for each chain type by the manufacturer. There are many differences that can have detrimental effects if an incorrect master link is used.

Q. Is it OK to add links to a chain if it’s too short?

A. Chain manufacturers do not recommend adding links to a chain if the chain is too short. The correct length chain should be purchased instead, as the connecting link is usually the weakest link in the chain which using more master links will double the chance of a chain failure.

Q. Is it normal for a new chain to "stretch" after the first few rides?

A. Yes, it is normal for all chains to "stretch" a small amount. The chain should be adjusted to insure the chain aligned correctly and tension is set OEM specs for your motorcycle/ATV after the first 50 miles and again after 200 miles. If you are riding off-road, check the chain before every ride.

Q. Is My Chain Stretching?

A. NO.  Chains don’t actually stretch.  A more correct term is elongate.  This happens due to a process called chordal action.  Essentially this means the constant back and forth movement of a inner bushing around the pins.  The softest part of a chain is the pins, and when it happens correctly, that’s where a chain elongates.  The inner bushing and rollers have a Rockwell hardness of around C30.  The pin material is what’s called “Dead Soft”.  Wear occurs between the outside diameter of the pin and the inside diameter of the inner bushing.  Small countershaft sprockets do cause more chordal action, as smaller sprockets make more revolutions than larger sprockets.

Q. How Can I Tell If The Chain Needs To Be Replaced?

A. Besides the obvious signs of long-term wear, rust, “hooked” sprocket teeth and bound links; there is a Mathematical formula you can use that can tell you when you need to replace the chain.

A=# of Links  (We’ll use120 for an example)
B=.625 for 520 type chain
C=.03

(A x B) = Y
(Y x C) = Z
(Y + Z) = X    X= When the chain exceeds this length – Replace the chain.

(120 * .625)=75
(75 * .03)=2.25
(75+2.25)=77.25"

You should replace the chain when its length exceeds 77.25" in length.  There are many other methods of estimating when you should replace your chain.  For example – if you’re able to pull the chain off the back sprocket, using a chain wear guide, etc.  But this mathematical formula tells you exactly when your chain has reached its life expectancy.

Q. Why do chains break?

Most of all broken chains can be attributed to improper adjustment or application

1. Incorrect application: I.E. a chain that is rated for only 400cc. on a 1300cc. motorcycle.

2. Wrong master link: the exact type master link is needed as the chain I.E. 520XSO chain you need to use a 520XSO master link not a 520GXW master link.

3. Miss-alignment of sprockets or the rear axle is not straight.

4. Improper Chain Adjustment, or Chain Length: A chain that is too short or set too tight will increase the wear on the drive system. A chain too long or set too loose can whip and possibly come off the sprockets. The chains tension should be set to the manufacturers specs.

5. Mismatched drive components: 520 size sprockets with a 530 size chain all components need to be the same size.