10 best motorcycles chains

Motorcycle Chains are a critical component of a motorcycle's drivetrain system. They play a pivotal role in transferring power from the engine to the rear wheel, enabling the bike to move forward. Here are some key points related to motorcycle chains from an industrial scientific perspective:

  1. Materials: Motorcycle chains are typically made from high-strength steel alloys. These alloys are chosen for their durability and resistance to wear and tear.

  2. Types of Chains: There are primarily two types of motorcycle chains: standard roller chains and O-ring chains.O-ring chains have small rubber O-rings between the outer and inner plates, which help to retain lubrication and reduce friction and wear.

  3. Pitch and Size: Chains come in various sizes, often categorized by pitch (the distance between the pins) and the number of links. Common sizes include 520, 525, and 530. The choice of chain size depends on the motorcycle's power and intended use.

  4. Maintenance: Proper maintenance of a motorcycle chain is crucial for safety and longevity. This includes regular cleaning, lubrication, and tension adjustment. Neglecting maintenance can lead to accelerated wear and chain failure.

  5. Tensile Strength: Tensile strength is a critical factor when selecting a chain. It measures the chain's ability to withstand force and tension. Motorcycle chains are designed with a specific tensile strength to match the bike's power and usage.

  6. Chain Wear: Chains wear over time due to the stress of operation and exposure to the elements. Manufacturers often specify a maximum allowable wear limit, and chains should be replaced if they exceed this limit to maintain safety and performance.

  7. Chain Alignment: Proper alignment of the front and rear sprockets is essential to prevent premature chain wear. Misalignment can cause the chain to wear unevenly and reduce its lifespan.

  8. Chain Lubrication: Lubrication is crucial to reduce friction and wear. Motorcycle chain lubes are specifically designed to penetrate the chain's links and provide long-lasting protection.

  9. Environmental Impact: Motorcycle chains are exposed to a variety of environmental conditions, including rain, dirt, and road debris. These factors can accelerate chain wear and require more frequent maintenance in harsh conditions.

  10. Chain Tension: Maintaining the correct chain tension is essential. Too loose, and it can jump off the sprockets; too tight, and it can stress the chain and sprockets, leading to premature wear.

  11. Chain Replacement: Chains have a limited lifespan, and eventually, they will need replacement. When replacing a chain, it's recommended to also replace the front and rear sprockets to ensure even wear and performance.

  12. Safety: A well-maintained chain is crucial for safety while riding. A broken or worn-out chain can lead to loss of control and accidents.

In summary, motorcycle chains are essential components of a motorcycle's drivetrain system, responsible for transferring power from the engine to the rear wheel. Proper selection, maintenance, and care of the chain are essential for safety, performance, and the longevity of the motorcycle's drivetrain components.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best motorcycles chains on the market
  

BIGLUFU Motorcycle Lock Chain Locks Heavy Duty, 120cm/4ft Long, Cut Proof 12mm Thick Square Chains with 4Keys 16mm U Lock, Ideal for Motorcycles, Motorbike, Bike, Generator, Gates, Bicycle, Scooter.

BIGLUFU

Based on 235 reviews Check latest price
  • ★★ HEFTY & STRONG CUT RESISTANT: Our bike lock is made of unbreakable 3T manganese steel, 0.6” / 15mm square-linked chain, strong and tough, can withstand TOTALLY 8KN tension and 17KN shear force providing maximum cut resistance and much safer than most of other chain lock in the market.
  • ★★ SCRATCH-PROOF COVER & FRIENDLY SIZE: The chain lock is wrapped by a water-resistant nylon sleeve, which is scratch-proof and wear-resistant, protects chain from scratching your property. 48” / 120cm * 2” / 5cm strong cut resistant chain lock is made of 19 chains, each chain is 5cm (2 in) in width & 8.5cm ( 3.3 in) length & 15mm ( 0.6 in) height, sturdy enough to securely lock your valuables.
  • ★★STOUT U LOCK & 4 ERGONOMIC KEYS: Our chain lock comes with 1 sturdy U lock made of 14mm hard zinc alloy shackle and thick PVC coating, strong resists cutting and leverage attacks, ensures your motorcycle safety. 4 ergonomic keys are made of hard and durable stainless steel, never bent or twist.
  • ★★WIDELY APPLICATION: This motorcycle lock is 48” / 120cm, long enough to lock 3 to 4 motorcycles together, also ideal for locking lawnmowers, sports equipment, tool boxes, motorcycle & scooter, skateboards, gates, fences, grills, ladders etc. A great gift to friends, families, or students who needs it.
  • ★★WARRANTY & CUSTOMER SERVICE: 3-year warranty applies to the bike lock chain, 90-day money back policy, 24-hour online customer service. If you are not satisfied with it, you get a full refund unconditionally. Rest assured.

User questions & answers

Question: How is it against the kryponite new York Noose
Answer: Feels like laminated plastic however I purchased the blue band. This means I speculate that dying of leather in different colors other than natural may skew the feel. Perhaps if one purchase a brown or black band maybe the feel would be softer than the blue I bought. I theorize this because I have purchased a blue wallet from a well-known retailer and I found the leather to be hard and difficult to fit cards and such into. Over time the wallet did give a little but other wallets in natural colors did not have the same issue at all, the purchase was the same type and brand of wallet. My response to the question at hand I know is way left field but it is my experience. The one issue I did have an obvious issue with was the width of the band, I felt the band could have been a little wider than what it was, don't read too much into that statement I just like my watch bands to be a little on the wider spectrum. I purchased the band to alternate with my galaxy watch (22 mm) however I don't gravitate to it at all for the reasons stated. Hope my response helps and not too confusing.
Question: How do you get the automatic cover to open and allow for the key
Answer: It's not the watch size but your wrist size. Depends how big a person you are. Measure around your wrist then you can decide for yourself.
Question: Do all the chains have that circular loop on them
Answer: I just received my alligator grain band today and the true color is medium grey rather than the light greyish blue tint shown in the website photo.
Question: Hi i order this item and i lost the key will i be able to get a replacement key
Answer: It's leather. Not real alligator. So yes. Leather will deteriorate over time in water.

CNCMOTOK 420 Motorcycle Chain+ Chain Breaker,420 Standard Roller Chain 132 Link for 110cc 125cc Dirt Pit Bike ATV Quad Go Kart Scooter Mini Bike

Based on 19 reviews Check latest price
  • Premium quality： 420 Standard Roller Chain 132 Link made of alloy steel, High strength and good corrosion resistance , strong and durable.
  • Specifications: Chain No.: 420; Pitch: 1/2"; Roller Width: 1/4"; Roller Diameter: 5/16"; Sprocket Thickness: 0.227". Breaker is good for 420-530.Chain total length 59" in 132 links
  • Powerful： Links can be removed to fit virtually any application, like 50cc 70cc 90cc 110cc 125cc ATVs and dirt bikes, Go Kart, Mini Bike, Scooter, Pit Bike, Quad, etc.
  • Package including： 1pcs 420 roller chain , 1pcs chain breaker and 4pcs 420 Chain Connector Link.

RK Racing Chain GB530XSOZ1-106 106-Links Gold X-Ring Chain with Connecting Link

Based on 11 reviews Check latest price
  • Made in Japan
  • Package Weight :4.3 lbs
  • Package dimensions :3.048 cm (H) x 25.907 cm (L) x 12.192 cm (W)
  • Product type :AUTO ACCESSORY

User questions & answers

Question: Tensile strength
Answer: I have a 7 and took out one link for a bangle loose feel. I don't think it would go to 10 inches. Maybe look for extra links. Worst case you could buy two and put the links till it fit. The links are all the same width.

RK Racing Chain 520-SO-120 120-Links O-Ring Chain with Connecting Link

RK Racing Chain

Based on 804 reviews Check latest price

Product description

RK 520SO-120 NATURAL

  • Pre-stressed for maximum performance
  • Pre-stretched for long life
  • O-Ring design
  • Clip-type master link
  • Max cc for street/offroad: 400/400

User questions & answers

Question: What size chain will this fit
Answer: 520
Question: does this come with a riveting link
Answer: No
Question: Does this come with the connecting master clip
Answer: It didn’t come with mine...instead of doing a return process I bought two at my local dealership and then those didn’t fit so hoping the one I ordered on amazon with the same name fits.
Question: where I can get replacement Clip-type master link? I messed up mine (lost o-ring and clip
Answer: Any 520 clip will work and o-ring that size. Try your local auto parts or motorcycle shop or if the chain is too long, cut it and use the o-rings you would discard. I question your ability to replace your chain, align the wheel and tension it correctly if this question is legitimate...

420 Motorcycle Chain - 420 Standard Roller Chain 132 Link + Chain Breaker for 110cc 125cc Dirt Pit Bike ATV Quad Go Kart Scooter Mini Bike

Based on 510 reviews Check latest price
  • ✅ Premium Quality: made of alloy steel, heavy duty and long durabiltiy.
  • ✅ Specifications: Chain No.: 420; Pitch: 1/2"; Roller Width: 1/4"; Roller Diameter: 5/16"; Sprocket Thickness: 0.227". Breaker is good for 420-530.
  • ✅ Links can be removed to fit virtually any application, like 50cc 70cc 90cc 110cc 125cc ATVs and dirt bikes, Go Kart, Mini Bike, Scooter, Pit Bike, Quad, etc.
  • ✅ Package including 1pcs roller chain and 1pcs chain breaker.

User questions & answers

Question: I bought this and it was delivered today, but I didn’t receive my chain breaker. Can I please be sent one as it was advertised in the bundle
Answer: Sure but you will need ta bye another one 😁
Question: Does this chain come with a master link
Answer: It has a brushed matte finish. Just got it today in the mail.
Question: Will it work for a 90cc quad
Answer: IS THAT A BRAND OF A WATCH? IF SO MEASURE THE OPENING IN MM AND ORDER
Question: What is the totsl length
Answer: So we got 2 people saying yes and no I have a 11inch wrist and need a band can I buy more links for this band or not and where can I buy them thank you.

Grand PitStop Motorcycle Wheel cleaning stand - Paddock Stand Replacement - Wheel Roller Stand for tire cleaning & chain lubrication - GRoller (Medium (Bikes < 485 lb & Tyre width <180 mm))

Based on 549 reviews Check latest price
  • Ideal tool for Chain Cleaning, Lubrication, Tire Inspection and Wheel Maintenance
  • Perfect companion for any ride - Compact and Light weight
  • Same roller can be used for both wheels
  • DIY, Easy to use – Just roll bike onto Groller and place on side stand
  • Sturdy steel and aluminum construction with Non-skid backing

User questions & answers

Question: I have a k2 gsx-r750. it’s a middleweight, but is there any advantage using the stand for heavier bikes? a reviewer made that suggestion
Answer: You should be fine with the one I’m using. 180 rear tire on my bike. And you don’t need help with it..stand the bike up roll it on very simple.
Question: Could this double as stand for recumbent tadpole trike to make it a stationary trike
Answer: I was thinking same thing , if you built a wooden box with rails you could thorecticly put the rollers in the box to keep the wheel in the center of the roller , if I purchase I will update all since trike roller cost 250 or more 40 bucks seems worth the gamble
Question: What size will work wiyh ktm 2018 super duke r? medium or large
Answer: GRoller Medium will be compatible with your KTM 1290 Super Duke R as its Kerb wt
Question: Could a small bike like bmw g 310 be placed on two grollers so tires can be rotated during winter storage
Answer: I would not use this product for that. I *might* work, but I think it would be too unstable. Last thing you want is that nice bike falling over. This is really to hold a back wheel so you can rotate it, thus moving your chain during maintenance. E.g. applying oil or cleaning the chain.

Product features

Easy To Use – DIY

Just roll over your Motorcycle rear tire over Wheel Roller stand and rotate wheels easily for chain cleaning and lubrication, Tire Inspection, etc. There's no need to put any extra effort into rotating the wheels with GRoller.

Can be used for Both Wheels

Only one GRoller Stand is good for both the wheels - No need for front and rear paddock stands. Motorcycle Wheel cleaning Roller Stand saves your cost of buying two separate paddock stands for front and rear wheels as it can be used to rotate both the wheels without any additional cost or effort

Compact - Perfect Companion for Long Rides

Weight only 1.76 pounds and with the pocket-friendly size that fits easily in your palm, GRoller - Motorcycle Wheel cleaning Roller Stand can be carried easily on your rides which is not possible with Paddock Stands

Single Person Job

The GRoller- Motorcycle Wheel Roller Stand can be easily used by a single person without taking help from neighborhood friends whereas in Paddock Stand it becomes difficult to mount and un-mount Bike alone. Thus it is safer alternative as it reduces the risk of Bike fall.

420 Motorcycle Chain 10 Feet with 1 Connecting Link

Unibear

Based on 193 reviews Check latest price
  • ANSI #420 Roller Chain
  • Pitch Size: 1/2 Inch
  • Length: 10 Feet Box
  • Average Tensile Strength: 3710 lbs
  • Satisfaction Guaranteed

User questions & answers

Question: how many links is this
Answer: Find out the size of your chain first
Question: What kind of material it is
Answer: The item I received was approximately 6foot in length and to be honest it's not the best quality...As some people say "You get what you pay for"..Would consider paying the few extra dollars to have received a better quality product as to where my children have already broke the first chain made from it and now onto the final...I can say the chain break works might fine for the most part....
Question: Keyed alike- can I order 2 sets of locks and chains, and both locks will use same key? How can I order it
Answer: I am a chain engineer, so I have too much respect for all the other performance characteristics and understand tensile is readly available from the mfg... I bought it for the cost and my big deal is the sealing characteristics on the x ring seals... I hope it works out for a long life (I have 75 HP at the input).The quality of the splice (master link) is the limit for tensile anyway, so that is the tensile that is the key. I was very impressed with how the chain rolled out on my new sprockets, that is the life limit- lube and chain pitch control. Sorry I did not help.
Question: How do you secure your bike with the one large and small loop on the end. Thanks! Tom
Answer: I have both. This one arrived today. The chain is actually a bit heavier than the New York, though a few inches shorter. The lock is junk. Much lighter than the NY, case is plastic, and I think I could pick it in no time with a paper clip. Chain is nice for the price, but buy a different lock.
Question: Is the ring also hex shaped or only links
Answer: it's not an automatic cover. You push the red cover up and it uncovers the key hole 
Question: how many mm is the U shape lock
Answer: No just the end where lock goes the rest of the links are more of a rectangle

ABN Chain Breaker 13-Piece Set with Carrying Case – Chain Cutter and Riveter for Motorcycle, Bike, ATV

Based on 2 reviews Check latest price
  • Practical: Use the ABN Chain Breaker 13-Piece Set with Carrying Case – Chain Cutter and Riveter for Motorcycle, Bike, ATV to remove and reinstall motorcycle/bike, rear drive, and OHV cam chains that are #35 to #630; Tool completely pushes out the chain link pin
  • Easy to Use: Instructions – Loosen the sprocket nut, unscrew the bottom bolt on the chain press tool, and place the spring on the pin inside the tool. Then, replace the tightening bolt and remove the top bolt. Screw on the handle and lever, place the tool over your chain, and tighten the tool on the chain pin (this forces the chain and pin out the other side)
  • Durable: Constructed from hardened steel to ensure strength and longevity
  • Easy Storage: 4.8” x 3” x 8.5” (12.2cm x 7.6cm x 21.6cm) heavy-duty blow-molded plastic carrying case for easy transportation, simple storage, and quick organization
  • Contents: Package includes chain press + handle + lever + anvils, pins – 2.2mm, 2.9mm, 3.8mm + riveter + spring + press plates + carrying case

User questions & answers

Question: Will this do chains
Answer: yes
Question: will it work on smaller bikes like a kx
Answer: It works for 520 or 525 chains, no problem and likely more than I have used it for! Grind the head of the pin first, if you can. Trail fixes are possible without grinding.. Tool will last longer if you grind the head first!
Question: Wil this tool work on a chain size 415? THank you
Answer: if it on a motorcycle it will work
Question: Where are instructions for all parts in kit
Answer: I looked up on google of similar kits and found e-instructions and made it work.

Product features

Check This Out! - ABN Chain Breaker

Who Are We?

Auto Body Now is a family owned company based out of South Dakota. We provide the Midwest with the highest quality auto body supplies and car care products on the market. We have an exceptionally strong Internet presence, sending out over 50,000 products each month. In fact, if you have purchased any of your auto body supplies or car care supplies online, there is a good chance we have had the opportunity to serve you.

About ABN Chain Breaker 13-Piece Set with Carrying Case - Chain Cutter and Riveter for Motorcycle, Bike, ATV
A Closer Look

Effortless

This tool does the hard work for you and completely pushes out the chain link pin.

Kryptonite New York Fahgettaboudit Chain 1415 & New York Disc Lock

Kryptonite

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price
  • 14mm six-sided chain links made of 3t HARDENED MANGANESE STEEL for ultimate strength
  • Durable, protective nylon cover with hook-n-loop fasteners to hold in place
  • Includes maximum security New York Disc Lock with 15mm MAX-PERFORMANCE STEEL SHACKLE
  • Patented*, oval hardened STEEL CROSSBAR for extra security
  • Hardened DOUBLE DEADBOLT locking for extensive holding power
  • HIGH SECURITY DISC-STYLE CYLINDER with reinforced anti-drill, anti-pull protection system
  • SLIDING DUSTCOVER protects and extends cylinder life

User questions & answers

Question: Can the lock be threaded through any link in the chain or only the end links
Answer: The first few links are not covered so you could easily thread the lock through them.
Question: Would the 5' chain be long enough to chain a bicycle frame to a pole slightly smaller than a telephone pole
Answer: It is a factor of how much room you have to maneuver the chain (distance between the bike and the pole$ and how much of the bike you want to lock up. I need to include the rear wheel and the frame. But at five feet that still gives you 2.5 feet distance from bike to pole. So I would say yes
Question: why does the shorter chain (1410) weigh more at 15.25 lbs and the longer one (1415) is 10.8 lbs? Is that a typo from manufacturer
Answer: Not sure but this is the best lock in the world! I have tested it in NYC And San Diego
Question: Can it be cut with a 42 inch bolt cutter
Answer: Wayne winton does a video about this very subject. He is a professional lock smith. He does this stuff for a living. The answer is yes you might be able to cut this chain with 42" bolt cutters if you had a peefect scenario, but he couldn't seem to get his high end 42s with sharp blades and perfect leverage to touch this chain. You can look the videos up on youtube. Honestly, id be more worried about angle or die grinders getting this than any bolt cutter unless it was a high end electric over hydraulic cutter that most people are not going to have.

Product features

New York Fahgettaboudit Chain and New York Disc Lock (1410 and 1415)
Chain Size

14mm six sided chain links made of 3T manganese steel.

Anti-theft Protection

Register your product online to activate the optional Anti-theft Protection. In the unlikely event the product is defeated when used properly Kryptonite will pay out up to a certain value depending on the security value of the product. Visit our official website for further information. T&C’s apply.

Key Safe Program

Register your keys online and Kryptonite will ship you 2 keys, globally, in the event you lose them.

Stainless Steel Keys

3 stainless steel keys — including new key design and one LED replaceable key fob.

VULCAN Security Chain and Lock Kit - Premium Case-Hardened - 3/8 Inch x 6 Foot Chain Cannot Be Cut with Bolt Cutters or Hand Tools

Based on 176 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Includes Lock, Keys, Chain And Cordura Wear Pad

  • Secure any motorcycle, trailer, bike or ATV
  • Ideal for securing motorcycles, machinery, shutters, doors and gates and more
  • High-quality materials and exclusive shape
  • Practically impossible to grip with burglary tools
  • Maximum security mechanism for ultimate protection
  • Solid forged brass one-piece body padlock
  • Security chain is hardened to 63 rc at 10% depth and 50 rc in the core
  • Cannot be cut by hand with bolt cutters
  • Square link shape does not allow bolt cutters to get a proper grip on the chain
  • Electro-galvanized finish for maximum corrosion protection
  • Convenient storage bag with carry handle included
  • Lifetime warranty on chain if it is ever cut with a hand tool or bolt cutter
  • Chain length may vary + / - the length of one link of chain – up to 2 inches on 3/8 inch chain and up to 1.5 inches on 5/16 inch chain

  • COMPLETE SECURITY KIT - Each kit includes a premium, solid forged one-piece pad lock, three keys, 3/8 inch x 6 foot high security chain and a cordura wear pad. Professional operators choose Vulcan chain and lock kits to secure millions of pieces of valuable equipment every year — including trailers, motorcycles, bikes, and ATVs. Work with confidence, knowing that these chains and locks are backed by the 50 years of manufacturing expertise that only Vulcan can provide.
  • NEARLY IMPOSSIBLE TO DEFEAT OR CUT - The case hardened chain cannot be cut by hand with bolt cutters, and the lock includes a maximum security mechanism for ultimate protection. The square link shape of the chain does not allow bolt cutters to get a proper grip and the lock has been specially designed to be nearly impossible to grip with burglary tools. If you do not have the keys, you literally need an acetylene torch to defeat this chain and lock kit.
  • HIGHEST QUALITY MATERIALS AND CONSTRUCTION - The solid forged brass one-piece body padlock has an exclusive shape and design that cannot be defeated with any normal burglary tools. The case hardened security chain is hardened to 63 rc at 10% depth and 50 rc in the core, making it impossible to cut with bolt cutters or any other hand tool. No other lock and chain kit on the market is made of stronger materials or has a more difficult design for criminals to defeat.
  • ADDITIONAL PROTECTIVE FEATURES - The case hardened, square link security chain has an electro-galvanized finish for maximum corrosion protection, and it is fully covered in a cordura wear pad to protect against scratching on valuable tire rims, paint jobs, powder coating or other finishes.This anti theft kit works perfectly as a bike chain and bike lock, motorcycle chain and motorcycle lock, trailer chain and trailer lock, or ATV chain and ATV lock.
  • LIFETIME GUARANTEE ON CHAIN - Vulcan offers a lifetime guarantee on the heavy duty chain if it is ever cut with a bolt cutter or hand tool. Only Vulcan Brands premium case hardened security chain and lock kits have all of the premium features and materials required to keep your valuable machinery, motorcycles or facilities safe. Some other brands claim to be the best, but when you need to protect your valuables, there is only one choice - Vulcan.

User questions & answers

Question: My chain protective sleeve has lost, where can I order it
Answer: Unfortunately, the Protective sleeve does not come as an independent accessory item.
Question: How many keys come with it? What are the key replacement options
Answer: Each lock comes with three (3) keys. If you wish to make copies, a standard key copying machine will do the job. Replacement keys are available upon request. - Best regards, The Ratchet Strap Warehouse Customer Service Team
Question: Can the key way in the core be drilled out with a cordless drill
Answer: Have never tried that to be able to say for sure, but I doubt it. If it can it would probably drain the battery on the drill or require something much more then a conventional bit.
Question: You say this is a Peweg chain but there's nothing in the description mentioning Peweg. Can you explain
Answer: The chain is made by Pewag in Austria. The Lock is made by Viro in Italy. We cut the chain, add the sleeve and a lock to make it into a kit at our facility in Detroit, MI. So, the complete kit itself is actually a Vulcan Brands product.

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