Topic: What size chain is proper for a '76 CB750f1?

[schmidbc]

I'm hoping that someone can shed some light on this subject for me.  I'm collecting parts for the final stages of the rebuild of my project and as I turn my attention to the chain I'm getting conflicting advice.

When I removed the old chain I counted the old links and came up with 102.  When I shop chains I'm being told that a 520/102 chain is proper and I've been told that a 530/104 chain is the right choice.  Could someone please clear up this mystery for me?

I've also had a parts guy tell me that these bikes were notorious for "throwing chains" but he couldn't tell me why.  This doesn't seem like a Honda characteristic to me.... I would love to hear thoughts on this as well.

[Bob Wessner]

I don't know the proper length for your F1 (I'm sure someone here does), but I would venture most of the "throwing chains" bit was more because of lack of maint. than anything. If you keep them clean, lubed and replace them when appropriate there should be few problems.

[dpen]

don't know if it's any help but I replaced the chain & sprockets on my K7 a few monthe ago. I fitted an "X" ring chain id number DID 630VS 96L. Have done about 10,000 km & no troubles. The chain needed cutting down to the correct length but, better too long than too short.

[Geeto67]

I have a 630 sized chain on my 1976 cb750F1, but I know for a fact that the chain is from the 1977-78 bikes (which came stock with a 630 chain). The original chain is a 530 chain but I am not sure of the number of links. Ideally if you are replacing the chain you should also be replacing the sprockets (since this gaurantees they all wear about the same) and you can buy your chain and sprockets as a set matched for each other.

I have heard several different stories as to why the cb750f1 throws it's chain. The two most credible are that when they put more power into the bike with the cam and head change it brought back the problems the 1969's had of throwing a chain, and the new swingarm design casued chain deflection (I think this is less likely). My bike threw a 530 chain but that is because it has an 811cc kit in it. If you are really worried about it 630 chain kits are available but if the bike is bone stock and you don;t abuse it, just get a sprocket and chain set and stop worring about it.

[Dennis]

My "750" is a '75 CB750F SuperSport as it was called. As I understand it the '75 and '76 (F or F1 - what ever you want to call them) are mechanically identical. Just changed the chain on mine, end of last season, still have the box. Size 530 chain, 102 link. Now my bike is completely original, I don't know about yours.
If you feel that you need a stronger chain, there are specialty chains available in the same size or if you want a sealed chain, many of the O-ring or X-ring chains have a higher tensile strength.
If you maintain the chain regularly and replace when worn I see no reason to throw a chain. I think that the chains today are just a little better than what was supplied as original equipment in the '70's.

[mcpuffett]

hi, my 750 f1 takes a 530 chain 102 links never had a problem with this size chain   mick.