which chain?

It's time to start shopping for a new chain. Let's hear what you're running and where you bought it?

Found this at Dennis Kirk...RK GB530XSO (gold) Chain and Sprocket Kit $176.99
The only thing is, it says 108 link and I think I read here somewhere that our bikes are 112 link.
Also it's lists 17/43 sprockets. Is that stock?

 

Standard gearing on a 6th gen is 16/43, so that kit is potentially +1 on the front sprocket . I would verify what kind of sprockets the kit comes with as that chain is usually around $150.00......

 

I think the OEM chain is a DID, and I would stay with that brand. I have an RK Gold on my FJ1200 and I don't think I will get the mileage out of it that I got with the original, also a DID. I can't remember what other brands I've had on the FJ, but I know none of them lasted as long as the original which went almost 25,000 miles.

 

You need to get a shop manual.

The Honda shop manual for the '98-'00 VFR lists the chain as 108 links.

DID and RK both make good chains, but I wouldn't bother with any fancy plating.

Tsubaki also makes a stout chain, if you select a Sigma or better.

Check out sprocketcenter.com. They may have some deals.

I keep the gearing stock on my '00, fwiw.

 

Regina isn't to shabby.

If you could get the OEM chain from DID I would say go for it. But that is very rare to find in the US. I have had great results with the Regina line. Standard plates or a mere $7 more for gold and you still have a stout replacement. Only thing is to make sure you have the $100 rivet tool if you want to use the stake link. The nice thing is that Regina includes a good old style "clip" link should you so choose to use. Either way a quality chain at a reasonable price.

 

I got exactly 11500 miles out of my stock DID chain. I went with a RK XSO. It's only got 500 miles on it so I really can't make a comparison.

I will say this, I will never use an EK chain again. I put a -1/+2 EK kit on the Hawk 3000 miles ago. I replaced the clutch yesterday since it squealed like a pig. After the test ride, I noticed an loud clicking sound coming from the counter shaft cover. The chain is already noticably worn, as is the countershaft sprocket. Oddly, the aluminium Vortex rear sprocket looks brand new. I guess a new chain kit is in the future of the Hawk. Sorry, 3000 miles is BS.

KC-10 FE out...
lane: :usa2:

 

DID gold series chain from sproket center .com

 

I have been more impressed with DID than with RK from my research.

 

I just replaced the chain and sprockets on my 87 700 with JT sprockets and an EK MKZ Xring gold chain. Ive only put 5 or 600 miles on it so far, but it sounds fine and looks fine, only time will tell, thus far I like it.

 

DID 530 ZVM2 X-Ring chrome 120L :thumbsup: