motorcycle chain NGC

[larrys]

I haven't bought a drive chain for a motorcycle in probably thirty years. I recently acquired a Honda XR 50 for my grandson and it needs a new chain. Who makes a quality chain today?
TIA,
Larry

[Perazzimx14]

I like EK chains especially for the quick links that requires no specialty tools to rivet the link, just a wrench or socket.

On a 50cc bike probably just about any chain will suffice as the power output is not going to stress things. Is the bike going to see a lot of water/mud or mostly dry conditions. If dry I'd go for an even more affordable non-O-ring type and just clean and lube regularly.

[slopokes]

Any chain made in Japan—- or if you get lucky a Diamond chain….

[Antietam Classic Cycle]

My favorite is EK, but but I've used RK and D.I.D. as well.

[twowheeladdict]

I have had great service with DID chains.  Typically double what comes on the bike from the OEM.

[pehayes]

Why does it say "NGC"?  I have two chain-drive Guzzi.  I use D-I-D.

:-)





Patrick Hayes
Fremont CA

[larrys]

I like EK chains especially for the quick links that requires no specialty tools to rivet the link, just a wrench or socket.

On a 50cc bike probably just about any chain will suffice as the power output is not going to stress things. Is the bike going to see a lot of water/mud or mostly dry conditions. If dry I'd go for an even more affordable non-O-ring type and just clean and lube regularly.

Woods riding, mostly dry some wet muddy areas. Planning on getting the little guy to help change it. Five years old, he's into tools already.
Thanks! The search begins...
Larry

[RinkRat II]

   Thats the key to the whole process, getting him involved to whatever degree. Explaining to him the operation and maintenance at this stage is invaluable. whether he fully understands or not is unimportant it's the fact that you're taking the time to have those moments he'll never forget.

     Paul B

[Dr. Enzo Toma]

The OEM chains likely would have been DID brand. Just an inexpensive unsealed #420 chain. Might run you $35-40 to replace and is all that's called for on a little bike like that. Pick up an owner's manual for the bike if it doesn't already have one. The Honda dirt bike manuals tend to go into extensive detail on chain maintenance and sprocket wear inspection which is great for a young new rider to learn, while the motorcycle manuals sometimes just specify drive chain slack without hinting at how to make the adjustment unless one were to pay for the additional service manual or common service manual.

[Dukedesmo]

I've had chain driven bikes for over 40 years and, other than a split link breaking on an overtightened (my fault for not leaving enough slack to allow for the suspension travel) motocross bike, never had any problems with any.


That said, other than what was fitted when I bought them, I think I've only ever fitted Did or Regina replacements and my current chain bikes (2x Ducati) are using Did x-ring chains with riveted link but I would say any 'decent' brand with clip link is probably as good for a low powered bike and the removable split link is convenient for servicing.


Also, may not be so critical on a small displacement bike but it is always wise to replace both sprockets along with the chain due to them wearing to fit the 'stretched' chain - I found this out the hard way on my first bike after replacing a worn front sprocket (twice!) only to find it wearing to the point of jumping teeth within a few weeks due to the elongated chain not 'fitting' in the tooth spacings.