1982 Kawasaki KZ 750 LTD Looking for 530 Sprockets

wrote:

This is an instructive article.   en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roller_chain#Chain_strength
 

Chain strength is higher with 630 all things being equal, however all things are NOT equal because only low end 630 chains are available these days.  

Take DID for example.  Their range moves from VO (O-ring) to VX (X-ring) to ZXM-X (super high end X-ring).  As you move up the range the strength increases as does the durability.  If you want a 630 your only option is the VO.  I'm sure it's a perfectly serviceable chain, but it's not in the same quality league as the higher end options.

wrote:

wrote:

This is an instructive article.   en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roller_chain#Chain_strength


 

Chain strength is higher with 630 all things being equal, however all things are NOT equal because only low end 630 chains are available these days.  

Take DID for example.  Their range moves from VO (O-ring) to VX (X-ring) to ZXM-X (super high end X-ring).  As you move up the range the strength increases as does the durability.  If you want a 630 your only option is the VO.  I'm sure it's a perfectly serviceable chain, but it's not in the same quality league as the higher end options.

Spot on Ed, modern 530/520/525 chains are far superior to the heavy, power sapping 630, I just bought a 520 chain for my 810/gpz750 and the guy I bought it off uses  the same chain on his GSXR1000 race bike. Modern bikes produce way more power than our old bikes and NONE of them use a 630, as far as I'm aware...




 

Does it make sense to upgrade to 530 chain if I have 2 perfect sets of sprockets for 630 chain?
I mean financially, is it cheaper to get decent 530 set than just 630 chain?

wrote:

Does it make sense to upgrade to 530 chain if I have 2 perfect sets of sprockets for 630 chain?
I mean financially, is it cheaper to get decent 530 set than just 630 chain?


If your 630 sprockets are new, then I'd just buy a 630 chain and use it until you've worn them out, then do the 530 swap. You should always use new sprockets when changing a chain, change the lot as a set. 
 

wrote:

wrote:

Does it make sense to upgrade to 530 chain if I have 2 perfect sets of sprockets for 630 chain?
I mean financially, is it cheaper to get decent 530 set than just 630 chain?


If your 630 sprockets are new, then I'd just buy a 630 chain and use it until you've worn them out, then do the 530 swap. You should always use new sprockets when changing a chain, change the lot as a set. 

 

Well, they are NOT new. But "like new". Looks like bike(s) were parked with new chains which then were rusted out and destroyed. Very little wear on sprockets.
I understand idea about replacing in sets, but those sprockets in really good shape.

If the sprockets look new then just buy the 630 chain for the time being, once it all worn out, replace it with the 530, you'll have much more choice of quality and strength with the 530...

Ha seems this has turned into a discussion board, I appreciate you helping with the original ratios. I'm still curious to know if I can get 530 chain 30 tooth sprockets that are made for the rear of the 750H. I've seen others on here talk about getting them but they never said where. 

Sorry Don, I came to the party late and didn't realise the thread was yours. Give Z1 enterprises a ring, they are familiar with the conversion you want, Jeff from Z1 is a member here.......

I use 630 chain on my Z1's and my KZ1000.  I've had no issues.  Back in the day a 630 o ring chain would last about 6,000 miles.  Nowadays you can go that far and not even move the slack adjusters.  It's true that chains nowadays are much stronger and more durable than 40 years ago.  But bikes are also far more powerful than back then, so it tends to even things out a bit.  For my riding I think 530 is plenty strong enough....hell....maybe even 230 if they make it!

If I was restoring another Z1 I would probably go with 630 but if I was rebuilding one for daily use I would probably go with 530.  

I'm unaware of any off the shelf 530 sprockets in a 30T count that will be a bolt up to the 750H.  Maybe because that would create a super high overdrive ratio.  I think you may have to go custom.

Btw, I looked through fsm and kz does use 530 already. And I also measured sprockets and the are in like new specs

which 530 chain is recommended? Fsm says should be 102L endless, bug i see none for sale

I am not sure anybody sells an endless chain, and I doubt if many of us would buy one of they did. Installing one would require removing the rear wheel and swingarm. Replacement chains usually come with a few more links than you need, and with a master link. There are basically two types of master links; ones with a clip, and ones with rivets.Guys report no problems with the clip-style, though some will safety wire them just in case. I use a D.I.D. chain break and rivet tool, that easily removes the extra links and then rivets the master link in place. It is more expensive than some other tools, but will last a lifetime with proper care. I have read about some of the really cheap ones breaking during their first use.

Any of the major brands of drive chains will serve you well. D.I.D., RK, Regina, EK, et cetera.

If you decide to ask about chain lubricants, be prepared for an avalanche of strong opinions.