Chain for Sprocket Configurations

[Maddawg]

I know this has been posted about, but after looking through all of the posts I have found on the internet about this, they either, A) pertain to a different model (not the 08-12) or B) the post says that this is the lowest configuration that doesn't need a new chain, but appears to not have much confidence or to have actually done it

I have put on a 15/41 sprocket configuration for highway driving at lower rpms. However, it sure does seem loose.

Can anyone give me a little assurance that the stock chain will do? Otherwise, should I get a different chain or a different sprocket setup?

I don't want to crash on the highway and die because the chain is too loose, so please only assure if you have some level of confidence from professional knowledge.

[csmith12]

It should be fine are you sure the chain is the stock length (106 links)? Has the chain been adjusted? Possibly the chain is worn out, will it hold it's adjustment?

[NevadaWolf]

I am so wrong! My chain that I took off with the 42 is 106 links. Damn, bought a new chain needlessly.

Originally Posted by NevadaWolf is wrong

I'll go home and count my links from the 15/42 setup I was running. I was fully under the impression that the chain had been shortened.

Checking on the https://www.vortexracing.com/ site for: Model Selected: 2008 :: EX250 Ninja 250 R OEM Info: Pitch: 520 Links: 106 Front: 14 Teeth Rear: 45 Teeth

And then changing the front and rear sprockets to what you have shows an estimate of 104 links.

[csmith12]

I have ran street and track with 15/42 and 15/41 with the stock chain. As long as the chain is not worn, it can be adjusted to spec slack.

[NevadaWolf]

I'd give more weight to what Chris says over my guesses.

[csmith12]

Well there is no rule that says you cannot cut a link or two off your chain if it makes you feel better about things.

Here is a thread from back in March that might help. https://www.ninjette.org/forums/showthread.php?t=98170 All those sprocket combos in that thread and not much talk of shorter/longer chains.

[Maddawg]

That is what I was thinking about that old post.

My chain does seem worn. I think it is time for a new one. The previous owner didn't care for the chain much.

What about the RK Racing Chain GB520XSO-102 102-Links Gold X-Ring Chain with Connecting Link?

"Chain Type: 520
Chain Length: 102
Chain Application: All

Pro X-ring chain lasts five to eight times longer than standard chain
Provides two more lubricant pools than conventional O-rings for longer life
Lubricated with specially formulated, vacuum-injected U-grease; locked in by tough Nitrile Butadine rubber X rings
Polished and shot-peened link plates
High tensile strength ensures reliable performance"

I saw a link to it from this post (as highly recommend): http://faq.ninja250.org/wiki/What_re..._I_consider%3F

And another post said that the 102 link chain fit the smaller sprockets a little bit better. However one of the comments recommended getting the 110 link and removing some links. How much work is that? Is that unsafe? Is it worth it?

[csmith12]

It's always better to buy a chain longer than what ya need. It's way easier to cut off links than to add them from some other source. It takes me about 3-5 mins to cut the rivet head off with a dremel tool. They make fancy chain breaking tools, I rarely use mine but I should use it much more. lol

And yes, it can be quite unsafe to ride a bike with a wonky chain. You want to ensure you get the things done right and properly installed. Your chain coming off while in motion normally ends quite badly for both the bike and rider.

[csmith12]

Oh!, nothing wrong with rk chains. I have used many of them on my bikes, in fact... I have one on my pregen right now.

[cbinker]

go with a longer chain, you will thank me later, when you cut it and find that the shorter chain was not enough.