How Often To Replace Dirt Bike Chain?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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You should replace your dirt bike every 700-5000 miles , depending on how well you maintain your bike and your riding style. It also depends on the overall quality of the chain, and so taking good care of a high-quality dirt bike chain will make it last longer.

How many hours does a motocross chain last?

2 – Hours of riding per year . If you ride primarily on the street, a sealed chain will not last much longer than an unsealed. For a 450cc bike, we are talking in the range of 5000-15000 miles. If you ride in wet muddy conditions off road, a non sealed chain has a life of about 4 hours versus 40 hours on a sealed chain.

How often should I replace my bike chain?

It might be necessary to replace a chain that often if the bike is frequently ridden on wet or gritty roads. But can usually go 2,000 to 3,000 miles or even longer before there's enough wear to relegate them to the trash bin, if they are well maintained.

When should I replace my motorcycle chain?

If it is, you need to replace the sprocket, and your chain is probably toast, too. At the far back end on the rear sprocket, pull the chain away from the teeth parallel to the ground. A new chain will barely move. If you can pull it back to expose half a tooth or more , you need to replace the chain.

How long do dirt bike chains last?

I get about 5000 miles/150 hours out of a DID 520ATV chain on my dualsport. Keep the chain tensioned and lubricated properly, and make sure the wheel's aligned on the axle. If the rear axle is off, you'll destroy a chain/sprocket in no time.

How do you know when your dirt bike chain is worn?

Another, much easier way to check for a worn chain is to try to pull the chain away from the rear of the sprocket on the rear wheel . If the chain is worn, you'll reveal about half a tooth of the sprocket. A new chain will wrap around the sprocket snugly and won't pull away.

Why is my dirt bike chain stretching?

How long does an Xring chain last?

Some sources estimate that an X-ring chain can last about twice that of the O-ring style. Most riders can get about 10,000 miles out of an O-ring chain. While the actual difference may vary from situation to situation, there is no question that X-ring chains can last longer.

Do you need to change sprockets with chain?

If you determine that your chain is constantly getting stuck and lubrication is not increasing the smoothness of your ride, it's likely time to get a new chain. However, when you replace your chain, it's a great idea to replace your sprocket at the same time .

How do I know if I need a new bike chain?

How many miles does a bike chain last?

Most mechanics agree that you should replace your chain about every 2,000 to 3,000 miles , depending on your riding style. Many Tour De France riders wear out two or even three chains on their primary bike over the course of the three-week race.

Is my chain worn?

Measuring chain wear the free and easy way

Pull the chain at the front of the chainring as shown. If the chain starts to lift off the top and/or the bottom of where it sits on the chainring teeth, this means that the chain is starting to wear or is worn . If your chain lifts off the ring like this, it's likely worn.

How often should I lube my motorcycle chain?

A motorcycle chain should be lubricated every 300-600 miles to ensure peak performance and a long life. Lubricate the chain after riding, not before. This allows time for the solvents in the spray to evaporate before the bike is used again, and lets the lubricant penetrate the link properly.

How do you check a motorcycle chain?

Now that your bike is stable and off the ground, you can check the chain tension. The correct amount is usually printed on the swing arm above the chain, and can be measured with a tape measure by placing the tape against the arm and reading the distance between the two.

How long does a 520 chain last?

525 or 520 is good for racing, but for long haul riding, I'd go to a chain and sprocket conversion to a 530 RK X Ring chain. You'll get at least 20K out of that. Do you grease your chain enough? You should never see anything shiny when looking at the back of your bike.

How much play should a motorcycle chain have?

Push up on the bottom of the chain and note the distance between the full-slack (lower) position and the no-slack (upper) position on the bottom . 1.2–1.6 inches (30–40 mm) is typical for streetbikes, while dirt bikes may need 1.4–2.0 inches (35–50 mm) of slack .

Do new dirt bike chains stretch?

Your new chain doesn't actually stretch, but it will appear to stretch after you first install it and take it for a ride . This initial stretch is just due to the various pieces adjusting. When you buy your chain, it should come with instructions on how tightly it should be put on.

How long does chain sprocket last?

Your sprockets and chain are typically changed as a pair with 520 chains lasting up to 25,000 km and 530 chains 40,000 km if you keep clean and lubricated every 500 km.

Why does my dirt bike chain keep falling off?

Most bike chains fall off because they are either loose, stretched, too long, clogged, worn out, or are just the wrong size . Sometimes, however, the problem might be a misaligned or a dirty or worn-out drivetrain. At other times, the chain may keep falling off because you are pedaling hard or back-pedaling.

Do chains stretch over time?

The most important factor in preventing chain stretch is lubrication. If roller chains are poorly lubricated, stretching will take place very quickly . When a chain has elongated 3% of its original length, it must be replaced.

How do you know if a chain is original?

Is an O-ring chain better?

The O-rings encircle the pin bushings, and rest between the outer link and inner link plates. This seals chain grease in the pins and rollers, maintaining better lubrication for longer. Because of this, O-ring chains have a reputation of lasting anywhere from 1.5 – 2 times longer than standard, non-O-ring chains .

What is Z ring chain?

Patented since 2003

The special Z-Ring section provides enhanced chain flexibility . The conical section enhances the assembling on the bushing. The lubricant trapped between the plates and the lobes of the Z-Ring keeps the ring lubricated and increases its life.

Do O-ring chains Rob power?

O-ring chains eat horse power . Over sized chains eat horse power. When you only have 10 – 12 HP to start with, you can't afford to loose any. But if you have a 50 HP bike, loosing half a HP to an O-ring chain isn't noticable.

David Evans
Author
David Evans
David is a seasoned automotive enthusiast. He is a graduate of Mechanical Engineering and has a passion for all things related to cars and vehicles. With his extensive knowledge of cars and other vehicles, David is an authority in the industry.