Page 1 of 1
What the....?
Posted: Wed Oct 13, 2010 12:22 pm
by StuMiller
What is the difference between a 520 chain and say a 530 chain? What are the benefits of either on my 99 ZX6 track bike?
The reason I ask is I'm going to have a crack at changing my sprockets, as per Rob's awesome thread and whilst I'm doing so, thought I'd replace the chain.
By the way, this forum has some very smart cookies when it comes to this sort of stuff....what a great place to learn!
Cheers all.
Re: What the....?
Posted: Wed Oct 13, 2010 12:34 pm
by robracer
520 is lighter for a start & possibly cheaper depending on where you shop......+ because there is less bulk / mass to the chain in theory it is easier for the engine to spin up

if that makes sense.
Re: What the....?
Posted: Wed Oct 13, 2010 12:38 pm
by Wattie
dooooo iiiit....
dooo iiit NOOOOOOW

Re: What the....?
Posted: Wed Oct 13, 2010 1:08 pm
by Stace
robracer wrote:520 is lighter for a start & possibly cheaper depending on where you shop......+ because there is less bulk / mass to the chain in theory it is easier for the engine to spin up

if that makes sense.
Less horsepower loss. Although i'd love to see the dyno figures to see the difference.
As a side note, i remember when i was around the Supercross scene, all the big guns used to run light gauge 520 non "o" ring chain to gain that poofteenth of extra power. They went through chains hand over fist though.
Re: What the....?
Posted: Wed Oct 13, 2010 2:21 pm
by oldman
The size of the chain needed is dependant on how much HP you have. A 520 chain on a zx1400 would not last a day. Go to the EK chain web site and look at their chart and buy the proper chain for what type of bike you have. It has a lot more to do with the HP you are producing than the aforementioned weight of the chain or how fast it spins up. Also all 520 chains are not the same, some are made for lighter applications. Don't comprimise your chain size or type of chain in the size you choose. A broken chain at best will leave you stranded at worse will crack your engine case or lock up your rear wheel. Have a shot of Vodka and a brew and all will be clear.
http://www.ekchain.com, then click on sportbikes and read and learn.
Re: What the....?
Posted: Wed Oct 13, 2010 2:32 pm
by robracer
Old man, we have people over here racing ZX10's with 520 chains..... wouldn't do it on the road, but for track bikes its all the go

Re: What the....?
Posted: Wed Oct 13, 2010 3:29 pm
by Blurr
Yep minimizing centrifigal weight. On a racebike your not really seeking longevity as you will more than likely stretch it before a normal life period of a chain. I agree on getting a good quality chain though.
Re: What the....?
Posted: Wed Oct 13, 2010 7:04 pm
by MAXUMIS
mate its all down to power to weight you can get on the web and find out how many pounds each chain can take some 520s are very stronge+ find out how many pounds your standed chain takes you will be supprised the key is getting the write chain ive seen a 520 chain stronger than a standed 530 zx12r chain

Re: What the....?
Posted: Wed Oct 13, 2010 7:23 pm
by MAXUMIS
robracer wrote:Old man, we have people over here racing ZX10's with 520 chains..... wouldn't do it on the road, but for track bikes its all the go

there great for track racing but not for drag racing
Re: What the....?
Posted: Wed Oct 13, 2010 7:32 pm
by Blurr
MAXUMIS wrote:robracer wrote:Old man, we have people over here racing ZX10's with 520 chains..... wouldn't do it on the road, but for track bikes its all the go

there great for track racing but not for drag racing
That would make sense as your after strength and not interested in turning.