replacing chain and sprockets

[rodent]

Hi all,

this may be a very obvious question, but I rode bikes without chains for a long time, so I'm not up to speed on a few things...

With chain driven bikes, am I right in thinking it's generally considered a good idea to replace both sprockets when you replace the chain, or is it not really necessary?

Also, I seem to remember back in the dim and distant days of 125s and there ilk of people replacing their own chains fairly easily - am I right in thinking you need a fairly specific and expensive special tool in order to do that?

Again, sorry if this is very basic - after years of shaft drive only bikes I find myself with 2 chain driven ones ...

Thanks in advance for any help

[Lutin]

Yep, changing the sprockets and chain at the same time is a very good idea, especially if you are unsure of their "history".

Most people should be able to manage to complete the task without too much trouble. The tool you are referring to is, I think, the chain breaker / riveting tool. The job can be done without one of these. The old chain can be removed by grinding off the ends of the pins of one link. Most chains come with a new "rivet" link as well as a "split" link. If you are uneasy about using the "split" link, then you can fit it temporarily until you can ride the bike to a dealer / mechanic who has the required tool. I did that and it only cost me a tenner.

Some videos that might be useful to you -

Ep 7: Changing a chain and sprockets at Garage Night

Ep 8: Chain and sprockets part 2 at Garage Night

Hope that's some help to you.

[rodent]

Thanks again, Lutin - you seem to be answering all my questions today

[StumpyFingers]

I have just ordered a Chain Breaker and riveter set which when it arrives will be available to anyone who lives within the London / South East England to pop around and borrow.
A new OEM sprocket set is said to be able to last for two original chains , if fitted with an oiler and tensioned as required.

[barftone]

I normally change the front sprocket twice as often as the rear as it wears quicker (smaller obviously).

[Alba]

The consensus is ensure you get a OEM front sprocket.

[IgorVigor]

I would change the sprockets at the same time as the chain tbh...

basic reassurance in my opinion....

As for the riveter/breaker tool...I havent got one....

To get the old chain off, I use an angle grinder.
To attach the new rivet link, I use a mallet and a punch...and a g clamp

All in the shed and can be bought for under £10 if needed :P

Have done that on several bikes...was taught how to do it by a mechanic friend...whos family have done it for about 20 years :P

[StumpyFingers]

I have just been to TIPPETS and ordered a front sprocket for a Africa Twin, as it has 16 teeth.
Can anyone tell me if it fits the '04 650 Transalp, as I want to go up one tooth and only want OEM front sprocket.

[Lutin]

Stumpy,

You want the front sprocket from an XRV650 88-89, or VT600C Shadow 90-07 -

XRV650 interchangeable parts


I think the part number is 23801-MN8-000, from here -

Honda 16t cush front sprocket peace.

[StumpyFingers]

Thanks for that.
Just checked it against the order and numbers match exactly.
The salesman could not guarantee that it would fit as they only sell OEM kits.
I have a new rear and the one on the bike still looks as new.
So I have ordered a Chain From WEMOTO and the sprocket from Tippets.