I'm hoping for some input from all of you experts!
I want to replace the stock chain with a gold DID chain, but I don't know anything about this subject so I am looking for any advice or pointers.
I am doing it mainly for the asesthetics (I think the gold chain will look great with the other gold accents on the R), but I also understand that there are other benefits.
The problem is that I thought it was as simple as just buying a chain, but there seem to be many options and links etc.
What should I be looking at? Does anyone have a specific part number or link that they can direct me to?
You must have more money than sense, why replace a chain that hasn't even started to wear just for looks, I use chain lube on my chains even O ring chains, but wasting money on new chain to replace a new chain, spend the money on something else for the bike, but it's your money.
It's a 525 pitch, no idea of how many links. But you could count them if you want and that will tell you what to order. It's pretty easy to swap a chain yourself but you will have to buy the tools.
All that said, like Ashley mentioned there is really no benefit what so ever other than pure aesthetics.
You must have more money than sense, why replace a chain that hasn't even started to wear just for looks, I use chain lube on my chains even O ring chains, but wasting money on new chain to replace a new chain, spend the money on something else for the bike, but it's your money.
Ashley, I have a lot of money and a lot of sense, thanks. And I did mention in my post that it was mostly for aesthetics. Your argument could be made for any mod where someone replaces something new with something "prettier" ie turn signals, grips, etc so your comment doesn't make sense.
If you haven't replaced a chain before and/or don't have a chain breaker/riveting tool, I would have the dealer replace the chain for you this once, anyway.
I did the double gold chain on my Thruxton R a couple weeks ago. I just like the look of the gold chain, so sue me...
They are pricey but tough as hell (they are rated to 1300cc) and get a lot of compliments. This is the one I used:
You need a very sturdy breaker/rivet tool as these are pretty HD. I broke a cheap one before working with one of these chains.
You will have to adjust the chain after the swap. Hit me up if you need any more info. The pitch is 525 and the count is 100 but sometimes it is cheaper to get a longer chain and trim it. I would also order an extra master link in case you have trouble. Take the old chain and lay it next to the the new before the cut to confirm length. The silencer has to come off but not a big deal. Took me 30mins
Last thoughts: Also grind/file the pins before pushing them on the old chain and the break on the new one, less stress on the tool. Watch several videos on the procedure to do a chain, it is simple but needs to be done correctly. Might also want to pick up some calipers to check rivet spread. This is a skill worth learning, like changing a tire.
I did the double gold chain on my Thruxton R a couple weeks ago. I just like the look of the gold chain, so sue me...
They are pricey but tough as hell (they are rated to 1300cc) and get a lot of compliments. This is the one I used:
You need a very sturdy breaker/rivet tool as these are pretty HD. I broke a cheap one before.
You will have to adjust the chain after the swap. Hit me up if you need any more info. The pitch is 525 and the count is 100 but sometimes it is cheaper to get a longer chain and trim it. I would also order and extra master link in case you have trouble. Take the old chain and lay it next to the the new before the cut to confirm length. The silencer has to come off but not a big deal. Took me 30mins
Thanks for the constructive and informative response! Looks great! I will be ordering that same chain now, but I will not be running the chain guard so it's more visible, but I hate the tab that's left on the swing arm for the bracket. Oh well.
I believe the 525 pitch size... that makes sense being it has been used since the range was released in 2001. But 100 links sounds too short. 104 is typical with the older air/oil cooled bikes. I thought I read that the new aluminum swingarm is longer than before. But then again, I have no idea if the new WC engines have the countershaft sprocket located more rearward. So 100 links may be spot-on.
So, if I cut the new chain to the same length as the old chain, I assume that I possibly won't need to loosen the rear axle and adjust the chain? It would be nice to avoid that.
I had to. The new chain was still a little different had to do a small adjustment after install. But the last bike it was perfect, so you may or may not
It seems you got rid of the chain guard? I might get rid of it too.
Would you mind posting a picture with a better definition?
Thanks
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