I need opinions on best new chain for my 1981 S.S.?

[Classic Love]

I used the last adjustment on my chain when I tightened it yesterday. I need to replace the rear tire anyway so it's good timing. I've said before I'm a novice - learning as I go. I have knowledgeable friends & neighbors (Stroke of luck!), but they just tell me what I need - details not included. When I sit down to order it's  a whole new ball game!

The guy I bought the bike from was able to tell me that it's a 530 O-Ring but didn't know if the sprockets were original (I doubt it because they are still in good condition) or how many teeth they have. He suggested actually counting the links! How in the heck? Chalk?

And what brand? There are so many flippin' choices! I'm an every day rider with light highway usage. I'm not a "Speed demon," but I like knowing the power is there to get out of undesirable situations.

Once again........HELP!!!!

[TOOLS1]

Any name brand (EK, D.I.D......) 530 O-Ring chain will do the job. However you should always replace the chain and sprockets as a set. Old sprockets will wear out a new chain, and vice-versa. I like "Sunstar" brand steel sprockets myself. Also I prefer clip type master links over the rivet on ones on my chains. As for sprocket sizes I would go with an 18 tooth countershaft, and a 43 tooth rear if you want to go fast on the highway, or a 45 tooth if you want to drag race around town. You will need to order the sprockets for an older (pre 77) CB 750 though, but they will go right on your bike.
TOOLS

[Classic Love]

Thank you TOOLS1! Your tips have proven invaluable! So far I've gone with Sunstar Sprockets - 18 tooth countershaft and decided on a 45 tooth rear. I read the formula you gave for determining the number of chain links needed in an older post, but cannot find it now. Would you mind repeating it for me so I can write it down? Also, how are the "clip type master links" listed when I'm searching for a chain? And are they an aftermarket or universal listing?

Also, any idea where I might be able to find exhaust collars? Those half-moon shaped parts that fit inside the gaskets? Just figuring out what those were called was an ordeal! I've been working locally with a Japanese salvage parts guy, but even he has not been able to locate them!

I really appreciate your advice! I LOVE riding, but the learning curve on maintenance & repairs is quite large. I'm determined to do it myself and with a little help from friends and this forum - so far, so good!

When I bought the bike last year I was engaged to a man who had owned several CB 750's. He knew everything about them and was a talented steel & aluminum fabricator! He passed away last summer and while my grief is beginning to lift, my bike is beginning to deteriorate! I'm grateful for the knowledge he did pass along to me, which was mostly safety oriented, and I'm slowly adding to it!

Best regards,
"C-Love"

[TOOLS1]

Sorry to hear of your loss.
There is not any formula to figure the no# of links needed for a chain that I know of, just to figure gear ratio. However here is a link to a 530 chain with a clip type master link from Cycle-X. I have used this chain, and have no complaints. It is plenty long, but will need cut to length. You can get a chain breaker from Harbor Freight for $8.00.
http://www.cyclexchange.net/Chain%20Sprocket%20Page.htm
Just scroll down to item# CS-003
TOOLS

[Classic Love]

Cool beans!

Thanks again!

On Tue, Mar 4, 2014 at 11:32 PM, TOOLS1 [via Honda CB750'S] <[hidden email]> wrote:

Sorry to hear of your loss.
There is not any formula to figure the no# of links needed for a chain that I know of, just to figure gear ratio. However here is a link to a 530 chain with a clip type master link from Cycle-X. I have used this chain, and have no complaints. It is plenty long, but will need cut to length. You can get a chain breaker from Harbor Freight for $8.00.
http://www.cyclexchange.net/Chain%20Sprocket%20Page.htm
Just scroll down to item# CS-003

TOOLS

Life is not about the number of breaths, you take, but the moments that take your breath away.
I don't have an anger problem. I have an idiot problem. Hank Hill
Never confuse education for intelligence.
Happiness is a belt fed weapon.
I just can't imagine what could go wrong.
No fire? No explosions? So whats the point of your story?
Those who are too smart to engage in politics are punished by being governed by those who are dumber. ~Plato
It couldn't be done, but the darn fool didn't know it, and did it anyway.
We all got problems. Ksharp
1976 CB 750-A X 2
1977 CB 750-A X 2
1977 CB 750-K X 2
1976 CB 750 F
1981 CB 750
1966 Kawasaki SG 250
1981 KZ 750 LTD
1973 CB 350
1979 CM 185 Twinstar
1982 Honda XL 80
South of Eden (Kansas City MO)

---

If you reply to this email, your message will be added to the discussion below:

http://honda-cb750-s.456789.n3.nabble.com/I-need-opinions-on-best-new-chain-for-my-1981-S-S-tp4048950p4049017.html

To unsubscribe from I need opinions on best new chain for my 1981 S.S.?, click here.
NAML