Riding a motorcycle is fun, but it is even more fascinating when you have quality accessories for all critical parts of the machine. A motorcycle chain is an essential component. You cannot ride a motorcycle that does not have this part, and if you do, you may be risking your life.
Getting efficient motorcycle chains should be every rider’s goal. What kind of a chain should you get? You must know that chains vary in the materials used to make them, the shape of seals, and the weights that they can carry. It is essential to take note of these features when shopping for a chain so that you can get the right gadget for your ride.
My name is Bruce, and I am from Atlanta. I have interacted with motor chains since I was ten, and as a result, I have mastered the technique of selecting the best product. Currently, I have a Ducati Multistrada 1200 that I like riding slowly around the country road because I am not a fan of high speed. I have had several chains for this machine, some of which have lasted for years. By mixing these chains, I have been able to differentiate their capabilities.
I wish to pass my knowledge to other riders who would want to own the best motorcycle chain that is sturdy and durable. One thing that I have noticed is that my chains last for years. Nevertheless, some of the chains can last long even if I rode at high speeds like some people I know. When selecting a chain, I make sure that it is a good brand, and that it can do the job that I want. As you shop for one, I would advise you to do the same.
6 of the Most Efficient Motorcycle Chains Reviews
- RK Racing Chain 520-SO-120 – Top Pick
- JT Chain JTC525X1R096RL – Budget Choice
- RK Racing Chain GB520MXU-120 – Premium Choice
- Pro Taper 520 MX
- EK Chain 525 SRX2 Quadra
- DID 420NZ-120
In this section, I will analyze the chains that I have found to be among the best in the market. I have tried some of them, and I still use them up to date. Follow these reviews to find out which chain will work out for you depending on capability, strength, and affordability.
1. RK Racing Chain 520-SO-120 – One of the Best Motorcycle Chain
Think about having the best quality RK 520 chain if you want to enjoy being a rider. A company known as RK Racing Chain produces the chain. The firm has specialized in the production of chains for motorcycles. Therefore, with it, you are assured that one of the best companies in the industry produces it.
To confirm that the company is the best producer of these accessories, FIM World Championship Teams have used them for more than two decades. SuperSport teams have also followed FIM’s example by using RK Chains throughout their games. This is not to say that they do not embrace other brands. However, RK chains have been dominant in these groups for a long time.
The chain has O-ring seals that are made using Nitrille Butadiene which enhances its strength and makes it resistant to wear and tear. It is also made of carbon alloy steel that has been subjected to very high temperatures to enhance its strength. Therefore, while on a ride, you are assured that you will ride for thousands of miles before your chain gets any problem.
The manufacturer has also pre-stretched this chain to increase its lifecycle. Therefore, unlike the old designs that are not pre-stretched, RK is easy to use because the producer has done most of the work for you.
The installation process is very easy. If you can unscrew the sprocket, then you can set it up by yourself without requiring the help of an expert. It weighs only 2.9 pounds making it very easy to carry and light for use in a motorcycle because it does not add bulk of the weight to the machine.
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- It is very light
- It is easy to install
- It is made of carbon, which does not corrode easily
- It is suitable for on and off-road
- It does not come with an interesting link
2. JT Chain JTC525X1R096RL – Exemplary JT Sprockets Chain Review
Before committing yourself to a brand, it is essential to ensure that it has a plan for improving and being existent for a long time. I only commit myself to brands that care about what customers want because this proves that the aim of the organization is to provide quality even if they earn profits from sales. JT Sprockets gives me a reason to believe in the brand because of the quality control process that each chain undergoes before being sold to consumers. According to the manufacturer, each product they produce undergoes twenty-five stages of quality checks. What more would you want from a company if not such a guarantee?
Although it is not as light as a 520 motorcycle chain, it is not so heavy as to add bulky weight to your motorcycle. This chain has 5.2 pounds, mainly because of the different weights of the materials used to make the chain. It is made using an aluminum alloy that is similar to the one used in the aviation industry. It also consists of Chromoly steel and carbon C49, which enhance its durability.
Just like the Did motorcycle chain, JT Sprockets is also made using X-ring seals. They are the best that you can find. In fact, I make sure that all my motorcycles have a chain with X-ring seals. Even if I buy a machine with an O-ring type of chain, I have to get an extra X-ring chain just so that I can be sure of riding for as many miles as I would want in a day.
It has quad-riveted pins, which also contribute to the durability of the chain. These pins can resist pressure without getting spoiled easily. For an affordable price, I believe this chain is worth every penny.
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- It is heavy-duty
- It is affordable
- It is made with sturdy X-ring seals
- It has strong riveted pins that enhance its durability
- The lack of a gold coating means that it may be destroyed
3. RK Racing Chain GB520MXU-120 – UW-Ring Chain with Connecting Link
Are you in need of a lightweight chain that will give you excellent service? RK chain GB520MXU is precisely what you are looking for. It weighs only 3.75 pounds, which is very portable. Whether you are a man or woman, this weight is easy to lift, and you can quickly move your motorcycle without feeling as if it is overwhelmingly bulky. It has 0.7 by 4.7 by 9.7 inches, which is long enough to fit on a standard motorcycle.
It is a premium chain because of the UW-ring seals that are stronger than O-rings. The UW-ring technology is the newest in the market, meaning that it is an improvement on the older models of seals. Compared to all the other chains that I have already reviewed above, this RK Racing Chain has 9000 tensile strength. This makes it the strongest RK motorcycle chain that you can get for your lovely motorcycle to make your motor life more enjoyable.
All its materials are undergone high heat treatment using the Heat Induction Transfer process that the manufacturer has designed. Therefore, the materials have undergone enough pressure, and they can withhold high tension. Personally, when I hear that a chain has undergone such a process, I know that I would feel comfortable riding with it on smooth and coarse roads because it can hold on to that amount of pressure.
It can be used in motor racing for bikes between 125 cc and 500 cc, and with the gold finishing, this chain is classy and can resist corrosion.
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- It has four-point riveted pins
- It is very light
- It has UW-ring seals, which are the latest to be developed for RK motorcycle chains
- It is costly due to the use of the latest technology
4. Pro Taper 520 MX – Motorcycle Gold Chain
Although the pro taper gold chain is not very cheap, it is more affordable than premium chains. With a 3.8-pound weight, it is even lighter than a premium JT Sprockets. A motorcycle chain comparison indicates that its features and weight are very similar to those of RK chains.
It is a motorcycle gold chain that is capable of lasting for a long time without experiencing any corrosion. The gold coating is very efficient for 4-stroke bikes, and it can be used on a racing track confidently. The ability to be used in racing is enhanced by the 8800 tensile strength that the motorcycle can withstand. Such strength is always a win for me, and I can get enough sleep when I know that my motorcycle can carry my bags and take me anywhere I want.
It undergoes a high-temperature heating process, and it is made with Chromoly steel, which is durable. The chain is easy to install and clean by motorcycle chain cleaner, hence it is very convenient.
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- It is durable
- It has 8800 tensile strength
- It undergoes a high-heating process, which enables it to withstand pressure
- Although it is not a premium chain, it may be expensive for an average person
5. EK Chain 525 SRX2 Quadra – X-Ring Motorcycle Chain
EK Chain 525 is a product of the EK motorcycle chain. It is a 2.8 pounds EK motorcycle chain that is light and easy to install. The chain is unique because its seals are made of QR-ring, which is better than O-ring. The rings can withstand pressure and reduce friction by up to forty percent more than traditional RK motorcycle chains. These chains have also been proven to last fifty percent more times compared to standard O-rings. Therefore, when riding on it, you can be confident that you will reach your destination without experiencing stress related to the chain.
It has nine thousand tensile strengths. This is similar to that of motorcycle chains 520 made by RK. Don’t you love being confident that your motorcycle can carry heavy loads when it is critical? It would be devastating to go on a ride and then hire a car or send a load as a parcel just because you cannot carry it with your machine.
On the side plates, the chain has holes. These may seem like mere aesthetics, but they play a huge role. The holes reduce the weight of the chain so that it becomes lightweight. Without them, the total weight of the chain would be higher than it is currently. Cyclists can use it with bikes up to 1000cc.
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- It has 9000 tensile strength
- It has holes that contribute to the lightness of the motorcycle chain set
- It is suitable for up to 1000cc
- It can corrode easily due to the lack of a gold coat
6. DID 420NZ-120 – Gold Chain with Connecting Link
Did 420 is for a motorcycle enthusiast who loves bikes and can do anything to make the machine comfortable and long-lasting. It is for anyone who is willing to spend to get the comfort that cannot be experienced with any other chain. Therefore, this chain’s price is higher than that of ordinary chains that have less pronounced features.
First, it is coated with gold to enhance its strength. This material does not corrode easily. Hence, it is easy to ride with the chain on despite the weather. It can survive in humid and non-humid weather because of the gold coating that is resistant to the process of oxidation.
The chain is made of x-ring seals instead of O-ring seals which are common in ordinary motorcycle chains. These seals last for a lifetime because they experience less friction than their O-ring counterparts. The 420 did chain can last twenty or more times longer than other chains. Therefore, the price is worth it, and once you buy it, you get value for money.
The chain has 4930 tensile strength. Therefore, you can go backpacking around the country with a motorcycle using this chain because it will strongly hold onto your heavy bags and ensure that your life away from home is as comfortable as you would want.
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- It is strong
- It has X-ring seals
- It is coated to prevent wearing out
- It is expensive
Types of Motorcycle Chains
To find the right motorcycle chain, you need to understand a little about the types of these chains.
O-Ring
An O-ring motorcycle chain features O-rings that keep the chain free of dirt. O-rings act as a barrier to prevent factory-applied lube from getting between the plates and onto the pins. This way, the chain remains lubricated and does not get full of grit and dirt.
X-Ring
X-ring motorcycle chains are more efficient than O-ring ones due to their ability to better utilize lubrication, which provides less drag and gives your motorbike more mileage.
Non-Sealed
This chain is the simplest and most commonly found on older bikes. It’s inexpensive and dependable, getting you from A to B without issue. However, it does have a downside. If you don’t clean, adjust, and lubricate a non-sealed motorcycle chain, you will have to buy a new one at least twice a year.
Follow this Guide When Buying a Chain for Your Ride
Before committing to your money, you need to determine the features that you want in a chain. Having an understanding of the various features of chains may also help you to buy one and get it right the first time.
1. Material
Construction material is the first thing you should consider when you plan to buy a motorcycle chain. The material affects many aspects including safety and durability. Most high-quality motorcycle chains are made from steel, which provides durability, strength, and performance.
Some chains are also made from carbon steel alloys or gold side plates. These materials make the chain less susceptible to wear and tear. Gold-coated plate chains are also resistant to corrosion and rust.
2. Size
The size of a motorcycle chain is an important factor to consider before making a purchase, as it will determine compatibility with your bike. Motorcycle accessories are designed to fit a specific machine, so it is important to do your research to find the right size.
The size of a motorcycle chain is typically measured by the length between the rollers of the chain, known as the pitch. By ensuring that the size of the chain and sprocket system is accurate for your bike, you can be sure of optimal efficiency and top speed.
3. Flexibility limit
The elastic limit or tensile strength of a motorcycle chain tells you how much weight the chain can hold. If a motorcycle is overloaded, it can damage the chain. Heavy-duty chains can usually hold up to 8000 pounds. A pre-stretched motorcycle chain will work more efficiently.
4. Price
High-priced bike chains are not always made with the best quality materials. You should look for a chain that is a good value and is not too expensive. Sometimes you have to choose between value and price, but it is better not to compromise quality for a lower price.
Advantages of the Best Motorcycle Chain
If you change your motorcycle chain or maintain it with cleaning products, you will notice a number of benefits:
1. Economy of Fuel
A motorcycle chain that doesn’t create a lot of drag or corrode easily lets the motorcycle run smoothly, which uses fuel more efficiently.
2. Efficiency and Performance
A chain with high tensile strength is designed to handle heavy loads and can usually handle up to 8,000 pounds per foot. This makes it perfect for various types of motorcycles.
3. Low Maintenance Cost
The chain and sprocket work together to power the rear wheel. There is always a demand for chains and sprockets, so there is a continuous supply of replacement parts.
4. Speed
The main reason for having a chain on your motorcycle is for speed and power. The chains help with acceleration and braking. If you are into off-roading or racing, you will find that the chain is essential.
FAQ
Here are some of the questions that you should answer before making a choice.
What size of the chain should I choose?
You should select the size of a chain depending on the pitch. It refers to the length of the chain between two pins. For example, in a 525 motorcycle chain, the distance between pins is 525. In a Did 520 erv3 x ring chain, the pitch size is 520. Different motorcycles may fit different sizes of pitches. Therefore, it is essential to know which one fits your machine. Mostly, the size of the pitch is indicated in the product title to help you know straight away if it would be good for you or not.
What features should I look for when buying chains?
When buying a chain, it is essential to consider various features. One of them is the tensile strength of the chain. This refers to the weight that the RK racing chain or EK chains can hold. If you are not going to subject your machine to heavy loads, a tensile strength of 8000 and below may be sufficient. Otherwise, get a chain with more than this strength.
Another feature to consider is the materials used to make the chain. If it is gold coated, it means that it can resist corrosion. Therefore, you should not be afraid of riding in humid weather because the accessory will not wear away. Steel is also an important material to look for in a chain because it is durable.
Finally, consider the price and ease of installing the chain. In the RK racing chain review above, you can see that the prices of the two chains from the same brand differ because of the varying strength, seals, and materials used in the manufacturing process. The choice you make depends on how much you are ready to spend on motorcycle key chains.
What type of motorcycle chain should I choose?
There are chains with no seals and those that have O-ring, QR-ring, or X-ring seals. The chains that lack the seals do not last for a long time. They are incapable of holding on to the chain lubricant. With these, you have to conduct regular maintenance. Oring motorcycle chains are better because they can support the lubricant for a long time. However, X-ring seals are the best of them all.
What are the signs that I need to change my chain?
The best way to determine if you need to get a new EK SRX 525 chain or any other is to test it regularly. When you fasten it and find that it is still loose, you may need a new chain. Another sign is to test the sprocket. Does it have breakages and create space when you are adjusting the chain? If yes, it is time for a new chain. You may also feel as if the chain is lost while you are riding, and when you do, this is a signal that something is wrong and that you need to act on it fast.
How can I protect a chain from breakages?
One way of preventing gold motorcycle chain breakage is to take care of it. You have to buy high-quality lube that will keep the chain strong and free from wear and tear that is caused by friction. Another technique is to buy chains made with high-quality materials. Such chains will last longer and save you from headaches and the expenses of buying new accessories regularly.
What Should You Do Next?
Having come to the end of the reviews and buying guide, you need to decide on the chain that you need to acquire. Luckily, all the products I have reviewed above have the best features, and many other customers including me, have tried them out.
Personally, I prefer having more than one chain with me because you never know what may happen on the road. Sometimes, you may experience unforeseen circumstances that force you to change the chain instantly. This is why I prepare myself in advance. It is also good to know that you have a spare chain for use when the need arises.
Based on the reviews above, including the pro taper chain review, it is clear that X-ring seals are the best. However, this does not mean that O-ring seals do not do the job. They can do it, but the X-ring seals are more efficient, hence superior.
With an EK, RK, or Pro taper chain, you are guaranteed the best quality motorcycle chain cost. These are the best brands that you can find, and they have either O-ring or X-ring seals. If you can afford an X-ring, you should go for it, but if you can’t, an O-ring does the same job. The only thing that you should not risk buying is a chain that does not have seals.
Therefore, when buying a motorcycle chain, the features to look for include the shape of the seals, the material used to make the chain, and the tensile strength. If you are a heavy load carrier, the more the tensile strength, the better for you. Also, look at whether the chain is coated with gold or not. A gold-coated one can resist corrosion while others wear out with time. What other features do you look for when buying a motorcycle chain? What comes first for you, the aesthetics or the functionality?