is x ring conversion worth it

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rgrigutis

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got the primary and gearbox out and now would be the time to convert to x ring. just wondering of those who have made the conversion; how do you like it? thanx, rick
 
Kind of a set it and forget it thing for me I do clean the chain once a year if it needs it or not. Never had to adjust it yet in about 10,000 miles. Yes it's worth it.
 
If you plan on putting any miles to speak of on it, it is well worth it. Good X-ring chains will last many times longer than a sandard chain. You can buy a narrow sprocket for the front (the Norton model escapes me at the moment) and a machine shop can narrow the back one in just a few minutes. To truly care for/service a standard chain, it is very labor intensive and not worth the effort, IMO. Many 100+hp modern bikes run O/X-ring chains and hold up fine. Only stands to reason that they would hold up well on your Norton. I adjusted mine the first time at 600 miles. It now has +/-3200 on it and still in adjustment. If the chain last longer, your sprockets will, too. Chain stretch (wearing in) is what kills sprockets.

Z
 
By all means, an X or O ring chain is far superior to a standard roller. 520 sprockets, front and rear are readily available. Usually the rear drum/sprocket has wear, so I'd recommend replacing it with a 520 setup.
 
24,000 on the last X ring and sprockets. maintenance and mess is a LOT less and cost is not that much more, probably less if you look at miles per dollar. front sprocket is from the early dominator and any good machine shop can cut .125 off the outside of the rear sprocket or old britts and clubman racing sell them already done to fit the 520 chain. my preference is for the DID brand but most high end chains are good.
 
Hi Rigigutis
I have also converted to the 520 chain and I will try it out this spring. I bought a new rear brake drum/sprocket and a new 20 and 21 tooth front sprocket because the 19tooth had quite a worn hook from many miles and poor oiling practices. I would recommend that you replace with new sprockets.
Regards,
CNN
 
bill said:
24,000 on the last X ring and sprockets. maintenance and mess is a LOT less and cost is not that much more, probably less if you look at miles per dollar. front sprocket is from the early dominator and any good machine shop can cut .125 off the outside of the rear sprocket or old britts and clubman racing sell them already done to fit the 520 chain. my preference is for the DID brand but most high end chains are good.
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So you just machine .125 off one side of the sprocket and not equally on both sides?
 
Yes, just off the outside so you maintain alignment with the narrower front sprocket. You also get a bit more chaincase clearance as a bonus.

One of the best mods you can make on a Commando, IMHO. I've done it on the 750, need to do the 850 one of these days.

Debby
 
debby said:
Yes, just off the outside so you maintain alignment with the narrower front sprocket. You also get a bit more chaincase clearance as a bonus.

One of the best mods you can make on a Commando, IMHO. I've done it on the 750, need to do the 850 one of these days.

Debby
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Now that you put it that way it make sense. Thanks. I just didn't assume that the small front sprocket was offset to the inside compared to the 530 version.
 
Having done that and the layshaft bearing, I find myself much more comfortable cruising at speed, not wondering if the chain was gonna snap or the bearing seize, locking up my rear wheel and making the journey...much more interesting!
 
I've been using a 530 o-ring chain from Regina that works fine. It doesn't hit anything, but I'm running a chainguard off a Dominator. It's the same one that CNW uses after a little sculpting. I know a few people that use 530 o-ring chains without a problem, variability in bikes I guess.

Had an asskicker of an earthquake this afternoon. 6.5 but it felt worse than quakes I've been in that were higher. Garage is a mess, two bikes down :( But the Commando was on its centerstand and just scooted across the floor. Yeah!! :D
 
bob seen some news reports about your shaker, looks like a lot of minor damage and some major too. people without power and some buildings down. glad you came out OK.
 
bill said:
bob seen some news reports about your shaker, looks like a lot of minor damage and some major too. people without power and some buildings down. glad you came out OK.
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What he meant to say is glad you're ok and more importantly... the Nortons. :mrgreen:
 
I am using a DID520ZVM2 a very nice chain 8) and get yourself a couple of extra master links. Some people like using the rivet style link, but you will have to invest in the tool to fit it properly. If you use the clip type then use a dab of silicon sealant on the clip to make sure it doesn't come off. Open end of clip opposite the direction of drive rotation. :wink:
CNN
 
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