Topic: Chain Question for CB550

[Dave-and-his-550]

Ok, I read through the Chain and Sprocket FAQ. I found out I need a 530 chain. I decided to go with an EK 530 SRX  X-Ring Series Chain.

My question though regards the amount of links in the chains. I noticed different 530 chains had different amount of links. The one I purchased has 120 links. But some have 130.

I did not realize this until after I ordered

Can someone tell me what the stock amount of links are for a '76 550F? Can links be removed easily, or should I just order the proper chain?

[HavocTurbo]

Stock size should be...

530chain 110links.

17tooth front sprocket
37tooth rear sprocket

Next time you need anything let me know. What did you pay for the chain?

Links can be ground off. No problems there, but you would be wasting 10 links of an expensive x-ring chain. If you can still return it and get a 110... maybe even trade it plus some cash?... I would.

[Dave-and-his-550]

Hahha, ya I just called DennisKirk, apparently they have an automated living machine that can not cancel orders. Once it is placed, there is no stopping it!!1

Anyway, I payed $123.00 for it. I guess I would have to take out 10 links... Whoops. 

I should have just gone with a 110 link chain from Z1 for $80. But that shinny gold really sold me.

So, to take the links out, I'll need this:

Chain Breaker

Or this: Heavy Duty Chain Breaker

I'm not sure.

[TwoTired]

An X ring chain, like an oring chain, is too wide for the CB550 and will grind on the engine cases.
You would need an offset front sprocket to regain the needed clearance.

The 76 CB550F uses 100 links with the stock sprockets.  A 530 chain off course.

If you insist on an o ring/xring chain, the you should convert to a 520 type.  This will, of course, require new 520 sprockets, too.

[Dave-and-his-550]

An X ring chain, like an oring chain, is too wide for the CB550 and will grind on the engine cases.

No #$%*? So what type of chain must I order to replace the stock chain then? Non-sealed? Like this:

Regina Non-Sealed 530 Chain ?

I already ordered the standard replacement sprockets...So now I am in a quandary...

So I guess I can get an offset front sprocket, and keep the EK Chain I got (But still have to remove 20 links) or, order a non-sealed chain to replace the stock chain.

Although, I guess it would be better to upgrade to a X-ring chain perhaps? So maybe I'll buy a chain breaker, offset front sprocket (Will I need an offset rear sprocket?) and just remove links from the EK chain...

Or just buy this and be done:
EK 530 Non-Sealed 100 link chain

[TwoTired]

Either of the chains you listed will work, I guess.
As long as they are standard 530 width, you should have the needed clearance.

I haven't put oring chains on my 550s since that first try chewed on the cases.

Oring and Xring chains are wider, heavier, and use more power than standards.  Still need to do chain maintenance, just not as often.

[Dave-and-his-550]

Thank you. Just to keep things simple, I'll get the standard 100 link non-sealed chain from EK, but there is one problem. It says maximum engine size is 400cc, tensile strength - 7,700 lbs... Major factor? Or not really?

If so, looks like I have only one choice from DennisKirk:

RK 530KS Heavy-Duty Chain

[HavocTurbo]

Huh...

Everything I have says the F models used a 110 link chain.... time to kill my Honda rep.

I can give you choices for standard chains Dave. Let me know.

[Dave-and-his-550]

I can give you choices for standard chains Dave. Let me know.

Oh right. Ya please do, I'd like to know what you got. I was looking at the RK 530KS on denniskirk, but I'm not very happy with the lady I talked to lol.

[HavocTurbo]

I PM'd you...

Sorry TT... I checked the microfishe and I guess the 76 550F is a 100 link. My bad. For some reason everything I have says 110.

[TwoTired]

I've been using DID standard chains such as the one depicted here:
http://www.shopmotorcycleonlinestore.com/productdetail.htm?productId=-99565&browse=-16397&shopBy=-2123&catalogId=-534

[TwoTired]

Sorry TT... I checked the microfishe and I guess the 76 550F is a 100 link. My bad. For some reason everything I have says 110.

The fiche was my source, too.
Plus, I think I've replaced the chain on every 550 I own at least once.    I've cut down longer ones only because that was what was in stock locally and didn't want to wait for shipping.  Price was the same, either way.

Cheers,