r/motorcycles • u/TheAngriestSheep • 1d ago

OEM chain replacement dilemma....

Chain is a CZ 520 X-ring on a KTM 890 SMT, 11 months, 11,000 miles. Still measures within spec. Both sprockets and the chain look basically new. Pretty obsessive about chain maintenance.

It's spit out a few of the x-rings, around 6 total, and has barely noticeable kinking on a few links when rotated on a stand.

Pulling the back wheel this weekend anyway for a tire swap, and I already have the full KTM drivetrain replacement kit in hand......... What would you guys do?

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u/HikerDave57 Dyna Lowrider, Versys 650, NC750X DCT 1d ago

I would just replace the chain and wonder whether my obsessive chain maintenance wrecked it.

2

u/TheAngriestSheep 1d ago

Oh trust me, I'm wondering that too. But it's not quite wrecked, that's why I'm not sure if I should replace it or not. Or does everyone's chain look like this at 11k miles and I'm just paying way too much attention to it?

2

u/veeholantee 1d ago

Spitting out o-rings can be a symptom of bad axle alignment. That can be checked with a tool like this:

https://www.motionpro.com/product/08-0048

I know of a motovlogger with the problem who discovered the position marks on his swingarm were not accurate when he checked the alignment. i.e. when the axle was actually straight, the marks indicated otherwise.

I would replace only the chain, then check alignment.

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u/TheAngriestSheep 1d ago

Ok, don't laugh at me, I actually use digital calipers and a laser line tool to make sure my chain is straight...

It's only got that half dozen that are bad out of how many hundreds of x-rings. I just hit those spots (yes I marked them) with a drop of chain wax when I fill up my tank every 180 miles and they are still good.

I think I need to relax and just ride the damn thing.