[ikaika]

I just wanted to ask you a question about chain length. My local shop (the only one around) here in Hawaii just installed an EK MVXZ chain and Driven 17/45 sprockets on my 08 ZX10R. Well I was wondering, the stock chain length is 110 links and the EK comes 120 links. Well the shop installed the new chain and kept all the links. I noticed because when I went to adjust the chain, it was at 6 tick marks. Usually the wheel sits at about 3 tick marks. Anyways, I was wondering how 120 links with a 45 tooth sprocket will affect the bikes handling? I know the wheelbase is probably about 2" longer. Will it handle that much differently. I just wanted to see what would be the optimum chain link length for the setup I have. My local shop said that 120 links was perfect but I dont really trust them. Any help or advice would be greatly appreciated.

 

[Tread70]

I don't think he could make a 120 link work on a stock wheelbase even with the 45t rear. I am assuming he cut the chain down and if was smart set the length to as close to center of the adjustment range as possible. Only difference if you would even notice would a very, very slight chance of it not bringing the front wheel up as quick. Drag racers want every little bit they can get and slide the adjustment as far back as possible.

Tread

 

[TN10R]

Going from 17/41 to 17/45 with a 110 link chain would shorten the wheelbase almost 3/4 inch. Going to 112 links (what should have been done) would leave the wheelbase the same. Going to 114 would increase it over 1/2 inch. Using the full 120 would increase it 2.5 inches (not possible).

 

[ikaika]

Going from 17/41 to 17/45 with a 110 link chain would shorten the wheelbase almost 3/4 inch. Going to 112 links (what should have been done) would leave the wheelbase the same. Going to 114 would increase it over 1/2 inch. Using the full 120 would increase it 2.5 inches (not possible).

You're absolutely right. I counted the links. Its 114. How does the extra 1/2" affect handling. Should I go back and have them take 2 more links off?

 

[cardeea]

I just install the same chain in gold three days ago. The handling will not be any different. Remeber that the chain will stretch. Hmmm? My set is 16/41 and I cut off 3 whole links and I am at the 4th mark! With a 17/45 set up I think the shop did not cut any of your chain. They just install it because it is still long at the 6th hash mark. The 3rd gens come with 17/43 set on a 525 pitch! Why would you change that with a new chain and new front sprocket with the same count? Kinda a waste I think!

 

[ikaika]

I just install the same chain in gold three days ago. The handling will not be any different. Remeber that the chain will stretch. Hmmm? My set is 16/41 and I cut off 3 whole links and I am at the 4th mark! With a 17/45 set up I think the shop did not cut any of your chain. They just install it because it is still long at the 6th hash mark. The 3rd gens come with 17/43 set on a 525 pitch! Why would you change that with a new chain and new front sprocket with the same count? Kinda a waste I think!

Thanks for the info. I just want to make sure I have the proper setup. I am at 114 links. Just want to know how much of a difference 112 and 114 makes. I just came back from my ride and the handling still seems spot on. I'll probably just leave it at 114. Oh yeah, just to clarify, the 3rd gens come with 17/41 setup not 17/43.

 

[TN10R]

The longer wheelbase will cause a slower turn in, but it is small enough that you will not notice. If needed you could make other adjustments to compensate. Biggest impact will be to future sprocket changes. You can go bigger, but going smaller on the rear will cause you to run out of adjustment.

 

[ikaika]

The longer wheelbase will cause a slower turn in, but it is small enough that you will not notice. If needed you could make other adjustments to compensate. Biggest impact will be to future sprocket changes. You can go bigger, but going smaller on the rear will cause you to run out of adjustment.

Thanks for the input. I went for a few rides this weekend and didnt notice any change in handling. I will just leave it at 114 links. Thanks again.

 

[raceready]

Chain Lenght

I have a 2007 zx10 and was wondering how many links i would need for a 10 over swingarm?

 

[jimZX10r]

a lot, definitely gotta buy the 160 size.