chains

[rbond]

OK, here is a controversial subject. What is you favored method for cleaning and relubing drive chains?

[Wingspan]

My favorite cleaner that I've used so far is "Bean Clean". It's great for cleaning just about any grimy chassis part, not just chains:

http://www.webbikeworld.com/r3/motorcyc ... ean-clean/" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

[h2okettle]

I use WD40, a soft bristle brush and a rag to clean my chain.. I use an Oring chain and Belray chain lube.. I do not use chain wax as its much harder to clean and very gummy.. Then again, I do not ride many miles per year.. I do get over 30K miles from a chain.. Usually wear out one per year..

Allen..... GT rideaholic

[TLRam1]

Clean with Kerosene and a rag.

[rbond]

Another question, will an 'o-ring' or 'x-ring' fit a GT500 OK ?

[jkevinlilly]

Then again, I do not ride many miles per year..

Uhh huh, right, we believe that one.

Kevin

[Wingspan]

Another question, will an 'o-ring' or 'x-ring' fit a GT500 OK ?

Yes. Just use the correct sized chain.

[johnakay]

this is what I had made from bits 'n bobs and fitted to my old bike.
under chain lube device.near the bottom page.
http://www.ozebook.com/compendium/t500_files/tech.htm" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

[Scorch]

Speaking of chains, my 380 has a massive 530 chain. Is that stock and if so, why does a 35hp bike have such a big chain? Overkill? Should I convert to a 520?

[husson73]

520 o ring on my H2A have done 25 000 kilometers with it and still alive

[H2RICK]

Overkill?

Of course it's overkill because modern materials and design have made it that way. Today's 530 oring and xring chains are faaaarrrr superior to anything made back in the day. Heck, even the standard low-rent non-ring chains are better than what they supplied on that bike as new. Always keep in mind though, we are talking BRAND NAME chains, NOT crap Chinese no-name bargain basement chains.

Should I convert to a 520?

You're the only guy that can answer that question, based on how thick your wallet is.

The real question may be "Could I convert to a 520?". That might be a real challenge. Finding 520 sprockets that would fit your 380 MIGHT be a real "fun" job. The rear could probably be gotten from Sprocket Specialists reasonably easily but the front may be a little harder to find. Others may have already done this swap and have all the answers for you. If so, lucky you.
IF/IF you decide to go ahead with the swap then I would recommend
using a heavy-duty version of a non-ring chain for your application
e.g. DID Dai-Hard.....or similar in a RK/Takasago. You could use an oring chain but that would probably last longer than you'll own the bike, barring any racing activities, that is.....or distances that IBA Allen does in a year.

My .02 worth....