1976 KZ900 Chain size

Just wondering what is stock chain size for these old KZ900's? Didn't know if it was a 530 or 630, I am guessing the 630 is bigger and better? I know my chain and sprockets were changed by the previous owner and the chain looks huge from what I remember a long time ago.

All of the 900/1000/1100s from 73-85 were 630 chains. Kawasaki started to put 530 chains on the last police bikes starting about around 2003. These police bikes were the only
KZ/J motors that ever had the 530 chain.

If you are going to replace the chain and sprockets go with the 530.

Technology has improved these chains and the big ole chain is just a little bit stronger than the 530.

About 150 bucks from Z1enterprises. Roy

I have done the research, and have found out that only the "Tsubaki" 530 chain is as strong as the cheapest 630 chain. If you convert, make sure that you research everything carefully. If you do not have the experience, it may be more of a heart-ache than it is worth. I would only suggest, that you buy an "O" ring chain no matter what you buy in size. They last a LOT longer. Also, if you are going to replace the chain you for certain should replace the rear sprocket also. They are made from a softer steel and ware as fast, or faster than the chain. The front sprocket can usually last threw a few chains they are extremely hard. Just make sure that you inspect the front for proper tolerances according to the book. My front sprockets can last as long as 3 or 4 chains, but the rear only one.

SBC, follow the link for the Chain Sprocket guide, maybe it'll help....

OMR

kzrider.com/index.php?option=com_docman&...d&gid=428&Itemid=108

Thanks guys, I am not replacing as the previous owner already did. I was just wondering as the chain looks big.

Measure the pitch and you'll know exactly what PO installed....

otakar wrote:

I have done the research, and have found out that only the "Tsubaki" 530 chain is as strong as the cheapest 630 chain. If you convert, make sure that you research everything carefully. If you do not have the experience, it may be more of a heart-ache than it is worth. I would only suggest, that you buy an "O" ring chain no matter what you buy in size. They last a LOT longer. Also, if you are going to replace the chain you for certain should replace the rear sprocket also. They are made from a softer steel and ware as fast, or faster than the chain. The front sprocket can usually last threw a few chains they are extremely hard. Just make sure that you inspect the front for proper tolerances according to the book. My front sprockets can last as long as 3 or 4 chains, but the rear only one.

now thats funny i dont care who ya is! :woohoo: EK's DRZZ 530 series chain has tensile strengh of 11,500lbs,their 530ZZZ chain has a tensile strength of 11000 psi.Tsubakis strongest 530 chain is 11,000 psi.EK's 630 series HTS has tensile strengh of 11,000 psi.id love to see the street driven bike thats got enough motor and traction to break a 11,000 plus chain,hell id love to see it break a 9000 psi rated chain!my zx14 turbo runs a 530 chain and im here to tell you i was a hell of a lot more scared of it than that chain was! :laugh:

I did a 530 conversion on my bike with an EK and though I check it usually a couple times a week have actually only had to adjust it 2 or 3 times in about 6000 miles. I am very glad that I made the switch.

The tensile strength is just one factor in looking at stats on a chain.

The reality: all the good 530 and 630 chains are more than adequate for a street KZ.

The roller, pin and o-rings are what wear. With the exception of the high-end XW 630 chain, a 530 X-Ring chain is a far better buy than a 630 O-Ring chain. The X-Ring seals have a channel in the side of them to trap grease - and effectively have two seals between the side plates versus one on regular round o-ring chains. The 530 chain spreads the load on more rollers - a 15 tooth 630 front sprocket will only have 7 teeth in contact with rollers at a time versus 9 on the 530 chain. The 530 chains are slightly lighter, so in theory, slightly more HP at the rear wheel. Most people I know who have switched have got significantly better life out of the 530 chains.

530 chains are very available. If you break a 630 chain while out on the road, the chance of finding a bike shop with one is slim...