New chain: Rivetted or Split-link?

Nath · World Chat Champion Joined: 28 Jul 2004 Karma :

I think the chain on my new Bros is at the end of its life so i'm going to replace it. However it's a rivetted chain. My Dad doesn't have the tool to close a new chain, so if I was to replace it with another rivetted chain i'd probably have to go to a garage...

Is there any reason why I can't just fit a split-link type chain? It's not a big or fast bike(33bhp!), so I don't really see why it would need a rivetted chain. The only unusual thing about the bike is the single sided swinging arm.

Any advice?
____________________
Hard livin', hard luck.

Kickstart · The Oracle Joined: 04 Feb 2002 Karma :

Hi

Up to you really. Plenty of people do use split link chains, even doing drag racing. Others would not go near them with a barge pole.

It you are worried then get a split link as well when you get the chain, use the split link then ride to a bike shop to get the rivit link put on.

Personally I am paranoid about rivit links coming off.

All the best

Keith
____________________
Traxpics, track day and racing photographs - Bimota Forum - Bike performance / thrust graphs for choosing gearing

Nath · World Chat Champion Joined: 28 Jul 2004 Karma :

Cheers. I'll probably go for a split-link chain then. (cheaper and can easily take chain off in future should need arise; cleaning etc)
____________________
Hard livin', hard luck.

cagiva gezzer · World Chat Champion Joined: 17 Mar 2003 Karma :

AFAM wouldn't / couldn't supply me with a split link for a new 520 X chain.

Ended up putting the new sprockets on with the old chain and creeping down to the local shop. Changed the chains outside and got them to press the links for £5.

I would rather have a split link as i have the bike apart more than i change the chain.
____________________
"because one stroke isnt enough and four strokes waste two"

stinkwheel · Bovine Proctologist Joined: 12 Jul 2004 Karma :

I have had two split links fail at speed on a GPZ500s.

I will not entertain one on a bike capable of more than 80mph.

stinkwheel
Happy to have both his feet.
____________________
“Rule one: Always stick around for one more drink. That's when things happen. That's when you find out everything you want to know.”
I did the 2010 Round Britain Rally on my 350 Bullet. 89 landmarks, 3 months, 9,500 miles.

Ste · Not Work Safe Joined: 01 Sep 2002 Karma :

After having a split link split on the M4 at speed I wouldn't trust a split link chain.

dazzler10 · L Plate Warrior Joined: 23 Mar 2005 Karma :

Depending on the size of the bike, if its above a 250 I would strongly recommend going with a rivetted chain. I have yet to see any one use a split link chain in the paddock. Split links are best on a moto cross bike. Rivetted links are harder to to fit with out the right tool but once their on they won't come off at high speed!good luck

EuropeanNC30R... · Gay Hairdresser Joined: 20 Jun 2002 Karma :

I had a split link go on my RGV while overtaking a car.

The Haynes manual for my VFR400 says in big bold letters "warning, do not use a split link for this motorcycle".

I'm not sure how the Bros single-sided swingarm works but the nc30 hub doesn't have a cush drive so can be quite harsh on chains.

pipnet11 · Brolly Dolly Joined: 17 Sep 2004 Karma :

Buy a riveting tool. I dont see much problem with a split link, but rivets are stronger, so I use them.
____________________
I love the girls that do, I hate the girls that dont, I hate the girls who say they will and then they say they wont, but the girl I like most of all and I think youll say Im right, is the girl who says she never has but looks as though she might. - Max Bygraves