Posted by JayC on July 24, 2008, 1:00 pm
Are there any real differences (other than $$) between branded chains/
sprockets? We all know that Renthal chains/sprockets are absolute
junk, but what about DID, RK, EK, etc... ? What about steel
sprockets? Any preferences and/or problems?
JayC
Posted by David Kelly on July 24, 2008, 1:25 pm
JayC wrote:
> Are there any real differences (other than $$) between branded chains/
> sprockets? We all know that Renthal chains/sprockets are absolute
> junk, but what about DID, RK, EK, etc... ? What about steel
> sprockets? Any preferences and/or problems?
Thats the kind of thing you really have to answer for yourself. In my
experience and observation modern chains and sprockets are all very good.
Steel sprockets are inexpensive and last several times longer than even
the most expensive aluminum sprockets, but are heavy. Ironman sprockets
are expensive, light, and seem to last longer than anything. The KTM
Hard Parts catalog lists a "stealth" sprocket with steel teeth on an
aluminum core for what most brands charge for an aluminum sprocket. Its
not all that much lighter than an all steel sprocket, but its orange and
black pretty!
I use the KTM stealth sprocket with RK X-ring chain from Rocky Mountain,
and Primary Drive countershaft sprockets. Others I know have been
pleased with Primary Drive X-ring chains but last time I ordered the RK
chain cost less than the PD chain. Thats no longer the case but they are
within $2 or so.
Posted by XR650L_Dave on July 24, 2008, 1:53 pm
> Are there any real differences (other than $$) between branded chains/
> sprockets? We all know that Renthal chains/sprockets are absolute
> junk, but what about DID, RK, EK, etc... ? What about steel
> sprockets? Any preferences and/or problems?
> JayC
Honda front sprockets must be chosen carefully to avoid spline damage,
at least on the XR650L and on street-going XR600s.
A poor fit or a hardened sprocket will wreck the splines.
Dave
Posted by Mike Baxter on July 24, 2008, 3:53 pm
wrote:
>Are there any real differences (other than $$) between branded chains/
>sprockets? We all know that Renthal chains/sprockets are absolute
>junk, but what about DID, RK, EK, etc... ? What about steel
>sprockets? Any preferences and/or problems?
>JayC
I pretty much use RK O-ring or X-ring chains. I have been using cheap
steel sprockets, but I may purchase the Ironman sprockets to save on
weight. I found that the steel rear sprockets last a long time and if
you bend one, you can bend it back.
Mike Baxter
Posted by justwaitafrekinminute on July 24, 2008, 4:36 pm
> wrote:
> >Are there any real differences (other than $$) between branded chains/
> >sprockets? We all know that Renthal chains/sprockets are absolute
> >junk, but what about DID, RK, EK, etc... ? What about steel
> >sprockets? Any preferences and/or problems?
> >JayC
> I pretty much use RK O-ring or X-ring chains. I have been using cheap
> steel sprockets, but I may purchase the Ironman sprockets to save on
> weight. I found that the steel rear sprockets last a long time and if
> you bend one, you can bend it back.
> Mike Baxter
Bend it back? I have a lot to take in here, ok, noted;)
> sprockets? We all know that Renthal chains/sprockets are absolute
> junk, but what about DID, RK, EK, etc... ? What about steel
> sprockets? Any preferences and/or problems?