Topic: Chains

[Wis]

Ok...time for a new chain. I've done the searches, but cant find anything that really explains the chain. Such as what is the difference between 530 and 630....what do the numbers correlate to....what makes an o-ring chain special......do i NEED an o-ring chain.....how long do i need?.....1974 cb550....
 Can anyone help with these questions?....or direct me to a site that does?
    Thanx!

[csendker]

550 = NO o-ring, unless you want a new side case when the chain eats your existing one away.  They're too wide.  Standard 530 will work.  If you need an o-ring, you MIGHT be able to use a 520. 

Regular = regular links & regular lubrication.

O-ring = sealed links (with an o-ring on each side) and less maintenance (thus, a little wider).

Without getting into the details, 630 is heavier than a 530.  630 can carry more power to the rear wheel, but is physically larger.

You may want to change out the sprockets when you change the chain.  A bad sprocket will eat up a good chain.

I'm sure more will follow.

[Clyde]

520 equals 5/8" long/pitch by width 2/8" (=1/4").
525 equals 5/8" long/pitch by width 2.5/8" (= 5/16").
530[/u] equals 5/8" long/pitch by width 3/8".
630[/u] equals 6/8" (= 3/4")pitch by 3/8" width
Originally back in the 70's 630 chains were more powerful than 530, but now 530 chains are far superior to the old (undeveloped) 630.
Most superbikes such as CB1000RR/Fireblade and CB1100XX/Blackbird use 530 chains, but Ducati do use 525 chains and  smaller bikes use 520 chains.
Sorry I cannot help on fitting a chain to a 550, but I do always use o-ring chains on my 750's

This website gives a lot of info on types and applications of chains including all the different types of sealed(o-ring) chains
http://www.ekchain.com/

Regds
Clyde

[eldar]

Well your 550 should already have a 530 chain size on it. Just get a standard 530 chain, NON o-ring and soak it in oil overnight then wipe off the excess and install. From there just get a good lube and keep your chain lubed well and clean it once in a while.  Even if you used an o-ring chain, you would do this so it is no more work, you just do it a little more often.

[Wis]

Thanks Guys...that was just the type of info i was looking for! Man, i love this forum!
         Wis