Chain and sprocket question

I need a new chain and sprockets for my '85 VF500F. I know the factory chain is a 530, I was told by a coworker to go with a 520 chain and sprockets to reduce rotating mass. has anyone else done this? I also need a 16 front and 44 rear sprocket (recommended size for an F2 wheel swap). Any suggestions on manufacturers would be welcomed as I don't have a lot of experience with motorcycle aftermarket parts and I'm having trouble finding these for my bike.

 

Unless you are a racer who is trying to shave fractions of seconds off your lap times you won't notice any difference switching to a 520 setup. The 530 is a stronger chain and weighs a little bit more but will also cost more than a 520 setup. Either setup would be fine for your 500cc displacement but I do recommend going with a streel sprocket over aluminum since they last much longer. Go to sprocketcenter.com and you should be able to find everything you need.


Rollin

 

I appreciate it Rollin, I did go to sprocket center, but they don't have a listing for the VF500. That's the issue I keep having, I can find all the other VF models, just not the 500. Unless I'm missing something?

 

As long as the chain size is correct (530 or 520) you can remove links as needed to get to the 108 link length that you need. I'm fairly certain sprocket center will provide you with whatever length you need if you call them and tell them what you want. I would double check the number of links on your existing chain before ordering.


Rollin

 

Testing1234456

 

Ok, that part I did figure out. I will double check on the number of links though. I'm assuming they can help with the sprockets as well?

 

On the steel v aluminium rear sprocket, I agree steel will probably last a bit longer in less than optmimum conditions but I had an Al rear sprocket on a RF 900 once and it lasted just fine. However I also had a chain oiler fitted so it was running fully lubricated the whole time.

 

16t front sprocket, 44T rear and 530 chain are all available on EBay. I agree wholeheartedly on using the steel rear, much longer life than aluminum.

 

Thanks for all the help guys, I ordered a DID chain and and steel sprockets. Should be here next week.

 

I was never able to find a 520 front sprocket or I would have swapped a long time ago.

 

Since the OEM front sprocket has rubber damping, any aftermarket sprocket will be noisier and transmit more vibration.

 

Apparently Sprocket Specialists will custom make sprockets, I found what I needed for a 530 though.

 

I have a 1995 VFR 750 that just ticked over the 23,000 mark on mileage, but I believe that it is still wearing the original chain and sprockets - I bought it with 12,000 miles on it in 2010. I mainly commute on it - 60 miles a day - IS there any particular advantage to changing from the factory chain pitch or number of teeth?
thanks

 

Does anyone know if the rubber part that's on the OEM front sprocket can be added to a aftermarket sprocket like a JT Sprockets?

 

Answer is NO !

Sparky, you could change sprocket teeth #s to accomplish purposes of trading off higher cruising rpms, wear, noise, with improved acceleration vs. higher fuel mileage, less wear, noise, vibes. Depends upon your intent. Stock is usually best.