'84 VF500F 17" Wheel Conversion - Sprocket Gearing and 520 Chain ?'s

I am giving some thought to making a switch to a 520 chain as I need to purchase a new set of sprockets for my 17" wheel conversion on my ’84 VF500F. I am using CBR600F wheels for this.

For the sprockets, I am thinking 16F/44R to help keep the stock gearing.

I am not sure if there is a kit option out there or if I will need to look into machining down the sprockets to accomplish this.

Any thoughts would be most appreciated.

Many thanks!

 

Can I ask why you want to do the 520 conversion?

As for the sprocket, vortex makes a rear that will fit the Hurricane/500F - HERE

 

A modern 520 chain is stronger than a mid-80's 530 chain. 520's weigh less, equaling better performance.

I double checked and the stock VF500F rear sprocket is a direct bolt-on to a CBR600F cush drive. I am going to hold on the upgrade for now as my stock chain and sprockets only have 5,800 miles. When they need to be changed I plan to make the switch.

I haven't found a stock source of 520 sized sprockets for the VF500F/CBR600F so I may need to look into machining 530's down to accomplish this.

 

Yes, but a modern 530 chain is stronger than a modern 520...and it lasts longer. Unless you are taking this bike to the track I dont really see the point.

Vortex also makes a 520 sprocket for the Hurricane HERE

 

Thank you for the web link to Vortex's options for a 520 conversion on a CBR600F/VF500F. This is very helpful.

I also appreciate your opinion on the benefits and drawbacks of switching from a 530 chain to a 520 chain. I am a fan of durability as well but does a high quality 520 chain really wear out faster than a 530 chain? Also, the point of a 530 chain being stronger seems superfluous IMHO based on the horsepower output of a stock VF500F engine.

 

I would use the same argument in regards to the "improvement" realized by using a 520 chain...nominal, at best, considering the bike. That said, if you do make the conversion I would love to see a review. Where are you going to source the front sprocket?

 

Totally agree here - the improvement may be minimal.

I still have some life left in the stock chain/sprockets and as the rear VF500F sprocket is a direct bolt on to the CBR600F cush drive, I probably won't be 'upgrading' for awhile.

Regarding the front sprocket - I'm thinking a milling machine here..?