G'day. I need to replace the oem chain and sprockets on my 99. I've never purchased or replaced a chain before, so looking for advice on the type and make of chain to buy and the tools to break the old chain and set the new one. Any advice much appreciated. Cheers
I went with the RK kit from the local Honda dealer that is basically an OEM replacement set. It comes with the chain pre-cut to the correct length & steel sprockets. It was $160 + tax. I put in on myself in about 1.5 hour using the Motion Pro chain tool. The only shortcut I used was I simply cut the old chain with my rotary tool instead of pressing any links out. DID X ring's are the best chains out there but retail for $240 just for the chain. Add in sprocket & you're well over $300. I've had zero issues with my Vortex aluminium rear sprocket on my Hawk GT but lots of guys don't like/will not use an aluminium sprocket. My Hawk also has a clip style master link that also has had zero issues. KC-10 FE out... lane: :usa2:
Actually, someone else on here turned me on to this DID x-ring chain and sprocket kit for the Viffer; whole kit, with steel sprockets (either stock or add/drop tooth) for only $181! D.I.D. 530VM X'ring Chain & Steel Sprocket Kit - HONDA VFR 800F 02-08 - Sprocket Center
You're welcome :biggrin: The D.I.D. X-ring chain and steel sprocket set from Sprocket Center is absolutely great. And for less than $190 shipped for the chain and both sprockets, it's a DEAL! I went to a 45 tooth rear sprocket and it's PERFECT! Since I do quite a bit of steady highway speeds I was concerned about fuel mileage and the bike revving a bit higher than normal - turns out it's no big deal at all. The extra "pep" in each gear at any RPM is just perfect. Rolling on the throttle out of corners feels great - the bike should come like this stock!
If possible do your own labor. The removal and re-install of sprockets and chains is straightfoward. IMO buyin one of the "kits" is a wise move but buying same from a dealership is not. Many of the larger online aftermarket suppliers are now shipping at reduced rates and sometimes at no charge. I think you will find that checking prices will bear this out. The parts are the same. If you are not in a rush, check prices with a dealership ie Honda-Yamaha-you name your poison.. Then check prices in an aftermarket shop and finally check on line. Not a clue on your tax structure up there or the current "arbitrage" on the Loony.
Thanks. I checked the Sprocket Centre and they quote $195 for the DID X-Ring and steel sprockets. Doesn't sound too bad.
with a single sided swingarm theres no reason not to do the work yourself. its very easy and straight forward
Thanks TV! Sorry I couldn't recall who it was, but I gave you credit... (Just not by name), Anywho, yeah, not only am I expecting to go up a couple teeth on the back, but I hear NOT to go down in the front, so I likely wont. Glad to hear you like it.
Just put on a set from the SprocketCenter. You can actually take off the old chain by loosening the swingarm bolt and swinging the left foot peg assy a bit. Anyway, other than needing the chain tool for reassembly, job is easy.
Now with 5000 km on the 45 teeth combo and a Speedo Healer to correct the Speedo error, I will never go back to stock. By the way I had to cut off my 112 links chain to 110, so just order a 110 links for a +2 rear sprocket. :biggrin:
I'm running on a DID chain +2 rear sprocket, and a speedo healer as well!!! I believe that the +2 sprocket is the best/easiest/cheapest way to greatly improve the power delivery of the bike. Speedo healer is GPS confirmed to be right on....love it!!! Did the job myself....easy with the right tool (Which my local Kawi dealer graciously loaned me for free!!!)
i posted a how-to on this topic a few months ago with plenty of feedback and concerns from other members. perhaps it will alleviate any doubts or fears you may have on doing it yourself. read on and good luck [LINKY HERE]
