Topic: 1974 cb 750k stock chain question

[bender01]

Im trying to switch to an x-ring chain!
 What was the stock chain length and sprocket size?
 I thought 18/48 102 was stock. But I don't know.
Im looking at a 17/46 100 on the internet that says it will work.
 I like the thought of more 1-3rd+ gear action!
 will this work?
 I rarely get on the interstate.
  Thanks

[MCRider]

Divide the little sprckt number by the larger. 17/46 is just a tiny bit lower than stock. Hardly noticeable I think. The real, most popular ratio change is to a 17/48.

If you truly don't want an interstate ratio, then 16/48 or 17/50 will be even more appropriate, I think.

[DH]

See if the x-ring chain has enough clearance between it and the
engine case before you buy it, or ask if you can return it if you
have fitment issues. I have an x ring that I was going to use on my k5. It wouldn't fit, as it was much too close to the engine case.
I'm 100% sure it would've rubbed the case when in operation.
There was maybe 1/16" clearance, and with front sprocket "wiggle"
it wasn't worth taking a chance. Some say they've used this type chain with no problems. I can only tell of my personal experience.
I do not know why some have fitment issues, while others don't.
I have asked this question, and have never gotten an explanation
as to why. IMHO, Id check fitment BEFORE cutting any links off,
so it's returnable, if necessary. My k5 has 18/48 sprockets.
Any replies to my statements are welcomed. I'd love to know a solution Bender: Apologies if this is too far off your original
post/subject....

[cheftuskey121]

Ben, go with the 17/48 like I have on my K1 and F2 now. its a great combo that keeps the revs up nicely. I have not used 18/48 but the 17/48 was standard on a K1. I have no clearance issues on either bike with the same chain. I would go with 104 links and cut it back as needed. if you dont have a chain breaker/riverting tool let me know as I have one you can use, I am only around the corner.

also, found a guy named Curt, his name here is curt2005 and he just posted in the "77 and 78 bikes are cool too" thread. he is out in Isle of Hope in Savannah and built a K8 cafe, just went out there tonight and chatted for a bit. we are possibly going for a ride up to charleston this sunday. just a heads up if you want to tag. hope all is well

[seanbarney41]

is an x-ring wider than an o-ring?  I personally doubt it and have only ever used o-ring chains on all my cb750's.  The one on there now has  over 20k miles and still hangin' in there, and it was a cheap ass Parts Unlimited o-ring...

[cheftuskey121]

is an x-ring wider than an o-ring?  I personally doubt it and have only ever used o-ring chains on all my cb750's.  The one on there now has  over 20k miles and still hangin' in there, and it was a cheap ass Parts Unlimited o-ring...

it shouldn't be any wider. an x-ring chain uses an o-ring thats spliced so it looks like a double o-ring. the cross section looks like an x. it should be just fine

[DH]

This is my situation    Stock 530 master link vs. x-ring. In my case,
size DOES matter , but in a bad way

[bjatwood]

I put an O-ring chain on my K3 2 seasons ago and have had NO fitment issues whatsoever. You will need to compress the masterlink sides to get the clip on it. I used needle nosed Vise grips and it worked perfectly.

[DH]

Note the length of the pins. It'll fit, but with no room to spare.
As soon as the front sprocket wiggles slightly, (normal during operation) it's gonna hit....Maybe there's an overall width difference
between chain manufacuturers? The x-ring chain is "beefier" all around, and definately weighs more than stock. Probably robs some H.P. as well..