Bonneville America Forums Forums Technical Forums General Tech Endless chains

On all of my bikes in the past I've had basic (non "O"ring)chains with a removable spring link...Never had one break.
Is there any reason we cant use them today?..Makes chain cleaning.Wheel removal etc much easier..

No reason as long as you keep an eye on them, occasional lube etc.

The non "O" ring chains need lubrication whether they have a removable link or not. No lube and they won't last long. If you want a clean wheel, purchase an "O" ring style chain with the removable link. It needs minimal lube.

I think Ian (ie Dog) could post about his success with removable links and lack of lube on "O" ring chains.

In terms of it being easier to remove the wheel, it really isn't. It is easier to replace the chain though with the link.

I got 23,000 miles out of my X ring OEM chain with only 4 times lubricating in all that time. My rear sprocket showed no wear and the front very little. I have now gotten a new X ring OEM chain and sprocket set and opted for the old style clip master link. I don't recommend it. I had a he!! of a time getting the clip on. You can use a std. 530 chain and sprockets from Honda that fits our bikes. I say no reason to lube an X ring chain unless you want dirt to stick and wear the sprockets so they are worn too when you change them. If you use a std. chain with no seals be sure to lube it regularly. If you go with the Honda set I think the part numbers are in the tech vault. If you go with an OEM set I advise a rivited master.