Drive Chain Opions Wanted

[cyclenutk75]

Can anybody recommend where to get a reasonably priced chain?  Also, is it necessary to run an endless chain, or would a master link chain be acceptable?  Heck, while I'm asking, how 'bout some recommendations for the best O-ring chain lube.  Been riding shaft drives too long.  Thanks in advance for any help.

[andyb]

Reasonably priced?  Don't, stop, don't, don't don't.  I understand skimping on tires a bit, but chains the FJ is merciless on.  You will be spending $150 now, or breaking things later.  The EK ZZZ is perfect for absolute peace of mind.  Master links are fine, both clips and rivets will work nicely.  The screw type link is a best of both worlds compromise, easily installed but as reliable as a rivet.

As for lube, you'll get tons of different takes on it.  My opinion is that it's a sealed chain, and thus internally lubricated.  Therefore it needs cleaned, not lubricated, and WD-40 works brilliantly.

[cyclenutk75]

Thanks, andyb.  Definitely not going to skimp - just wanted to do better than the $231 price tag I found for an OEM chain.  I had heard that WD 40 was best for the O-ring chain and now you've seconded that motion, so I'm convinced.  Will be looking for a source for the EK ZZZ chain today.  And, of course, will be investing in new sprockets, too.  Again, thanks a bunch.

[Scooterbob]

just wanted to do better than the $231 price tag I found for an OEM chain.  I had heard that WD 40 was best for the O-ring chain and now you've seconded that motion, so I'm convinced.  Will be looking for a source for the EK ZZZ chain today.  And, of course, will be investing in new sprockets, too. 

Maybe someone can set up a group buy?  Seems to be a lot of people getting ready to do the same thing lately. (including myself, if I could afford it.)

[cyclenutk75]

That would be cool.  Found a 112 link EK ZZZ at motochains.com for $173, and I believe ground shipping is free.
Includes a rivet-style master link.  Tons of them on ebay - lower price, more links, but with shipping may be as much.  I was going to go with OEM sprockets.  Is there something better out there I should be considering?  Thanks.

[Pat Conlon]

Hey Gary, you can't go wrong with steel oem sprockets, unless you want to change your ratio. For durability stay with steel sprockets.
I don't know the Yamaha oem prices and how they compare to after market companies like
1) Sprocket Specialists: http://www.sprocketspecialists.com/sprockets or,
2) PBI Sprockets:  http://pbisprockets.com/

I would recommend changing your countershaft (c/s) sprocket from a 17 tooth to a 18 tooth sprocket.
Here is a neat chart showing the difference in rpms with a larger c/s sprocket:
http://www.fjowners.com/index.php?topic=669.0

BTW Great price on your EK ZZZ chain....congrats!  Pat

[cyclenutk75]

Thanks  for the info, Pat.  I actually purchased the sprockets last night.  Stayed with 17/40 as originally came on the '89.  I actually had considered going up a tooth in front, but the more I rode the bike, the more I liked the way it smoothed out at 60 mph and above.  I bought the bike a year ago and at first kept grabbing for 6th  gear.  After 10k miles on it, I've found that the harder I run it (rpm-wise) the better my gas mileage.  But, the gas mileage is not a major consideration, IMO.  I will definitely look at all the info you supplied.  You may notice I don't have a lot of posts.  However, I'm on here reading what you all have to say pretty regularly - I've got a lot more to learn than I have to offer.  BTW, I paid $42 for the driven sprocket, $22 for the drive sprocket (both OEM), free shipping on orders over $50 at Westfield Yamaha Suziki.  If you want to visit their web site, google Westfield Yamaha - their web address is different, and I'm not at home to retrieve it.  They seem pretty good on OEM parts pricing.  Bought a head cover gasket from them for $66 - local dealer wanted $99.  Also, piad $153 for a 120 link EK ZZZ chain on line from a place called Cli-Max Cycle.  Had to pay $11 for the master link, though.  Still a good deal.  Again, free shipping.
Thanks again, Pat.

[Flying Scotsman]

Reasonably priced?  Don't, stop, don't, don't don't.  I understand skimping on tires a bit, but chains the FJ is merciless on.  You will be spending $150 now, or breaking things later.  The EK ZZZ is perfect for absolute peace of mind.  Master links are fine, both clips and rivets will work nicely.  The screw type link is a best of both worlds compromise, easily installed but as reliable as a rivet.

As for lube, you'll get tons of different takes on it.  My opinion is that it's a sealed chain, and thus internally lubricated.  Therefore it needs cleaned, not lubricated, and WD-40 works brilliantly.

Can I get a screw type link that matches the Gold EK ZZZ chain and can I run a 18-38 sprocket set up with a 110 link chain.

[andyb]

No.  ZZZ's only have a rivet link.

They're bespoke to the EK chains, and available for the following 530 chains:
SRX
SROZ
ZVX2
MVXZ

110 should be fine for 18/38.

[Flying Scotsman]

I have a rivet link and have been advised against buying a chain rivet tool because they break and dont last long.Also was told that I could grind the top of the rivet flat then just use a punch on the pin.I dont like spending money on tools that dont last but I might just buy the tool.I would rather have a carbtune than a rivet tool though I could get good use out of that at least.

[cyclenutk75]

I bought an EK clip link with the chain (see reply #1 from andyb). I know a lot of hard core flat  trackers and they all run with clip links.  I've only heard of one failing, and it was because the guy put the clip on the master link with the open end facing the direction of travel - indications were that a stone hit it.  All you need is a pair of needle nose pliers to put it on.

[Flying Scotsman]

What chain did you get Gold or Chrome.

[Travis398]

I put the rivet master link on the bench, went to the local bike shop and bought a $3 (Clip) master link.
Problem solved. Plus it is easier to change when it wears out again.

[carsick]

I put the rivet master link on the bench, went to the local bike shop and bought a $3 (Clip) master link.
Problem solved. Plus it is easier to change when it wears out again.

Aren't you worried it will come apart? I've heard they do.

[Flying Scotsman]

Rivet tool has been bought along with a 18T front sprocket and a 38T rear sprocket.Bought some new fork seals too.