Best buys in chains, sprockets, tires

When I get home, I plan a rebuild of my long-suffering 79 kz750b. I'll probably have ten thousand other questions, but first I'd like to know the best brands for chains, sprockets, and tires for my bike. What are the longest lasting? Which, in your opinions, suit the bike best? I'll be setting this bike up for cycle camping and as my commuter vehicle for my 45 mile drive to work, so dependability is a must. Any ideas would be helpful, thanks.

First, welcome to the forum, twin twin owner!

Second, if you are military, thank you for serving.

Third, to the point: "Best", of course, is highly subjective. Everyone will have an opinion, and you should take them all with caution, obviously. I can only say what *I* like best. Having said that disclaimer...

For chain, etc., I recommend an o-ring or x-ring chain. In fact, to be specific, I recommend an RK x-ring chain, rivet-style master-link (yes, you'll have to buy a rivet tool), and lube regularly (weekly or more) with RK lube. You want dependability? That's what you'll get.

For tires, it's hard to recommend. I would buy one that fits your style of riding, more than focusing too much on a brand. Everyone swears by the tires they have, and this debate can get as hot as the oil debate. I'll just say that I use a couple different types of Dunlops, currently the Qualifyers on the 400s and the 404s on my 750s, though next time I might get Dunlop 491 Elite II (they cost more).

Next,
See this thread !!!

As usual, I agree with Biquetoast, and the best deal I have found on the RK X-Ring chain and sprockets is at Z1 Enterprises. The ones that I just ordered for my 79 twin should be here today

And I just installed Dunlop 404's on the Morris Mags that are going on the 79 at teh same time I install the chain and sprockets.

I would have gone with the Dunlop GT501 tires like I had on a previous 79 twin, but things are a little tight financially right now, so I bought the cheaper 404's.

steell wrote:

As usual, I agree with Biquetoast...

That's funny, I thought I always agreed with you....

...so I bought the cheaper 404's.

You have to tell me if you have any problems with them. I have one of my twins vibrating ever so slightly (no, not the normal vibration) while in motion, and I know it sounds crazy, but I *think* the front tire is *slightly* out-of-round.... Could be my rim, but I thought it was straight.... I've loved them other than that... I know I'm a pretty non-agressive rider, but I have like 8000 miles on one set so far, with no real sign of wear. Must be pretty hard tires...

So far, the best combined price for sprockets and chains has been Z1 Enterprises as they ship quality hardware.

For tires you can buy from any of the numerous vendors on the Web. Be aware that some local shops will not mount tires not purchased at that shop. So, you want to be sure you can mount them yourself or that a shop won't balk at mounting a carry-in tire you bought online. Others will mount them and charge you dearly for the privilege.

Biquetoast wrote:

First, welcome to the forum, twin twin owner!

Thank you. Glad to be here.

Second, if you are military, thank you for serving.

Kinda-sorta. I'm in the Guard. We're a bunch of worthless weekend warriors, unless we're pulling the army's butt out of the fire, Then we're "Selfless Citizen Soldiers" :huh: As for myself, I'm no hero, I sit in my air conditioned shop chasing sparks. But I appreciate your thanks.

Thank you for the information, as I get into this thing, I'll probably need alot more. :whistle:

CK