How much does it cost to replace a motorcycle chain?

Asked by: Kimberly Fox

It really depends on the motorcycle you’re working on. Chains can range in price from $20 for a plain chain for a small, lightweight motorcycle to over $200 for something like a quality O-ring chain for a bigger, more powerful bike.

How much does it cost to replace a chain on a bike?

How much does a bike chain cost to replace? Entry level chains can start off around $15.00 with more expensive and higher performance chains ranging from $25.00 to $60.00 or more. More expensive chains increase shift quality and are generally more durable as they wear.

Can you replace just the chain on a motorcycle?

As a rule you want to replace your chain and sprockets as a set throwing a new chain on you sprockets it's going to wear out your new chain prematurely.

How much are motorcycle chains?

$20-$50. At this price range, you can get standard 420-pitch chains for motorcycles with up to 80cc output. However, as you inch up towards $50, you’ll get some of the best 520 chains. $50-$100.

How much is it to replace a chain?

So how much is a bike chain? A bike chain costs anywhere from $10 to $90 depending on the brand, quality, and type of bike you’re buying it for. Basic, cheaper bikes that need a simple chain will be closer to $10. Higher quality chains that are durable and made for top notch road bikes will cost $60 to $90.

How long do motorcycle chains last?

On average, you can expect to replace your chain and sprocket between 20,000 to 30,000 kilometers, less if you ride fast and hard. However, if you spot any damage to your chain or sprocket, it’s better to just go and replace the prematurely-worn part right away.

What causes a motorcycle chain to break?

When a link is rusted enough, it becomes weak and can potentially break. The other big reason a motorcycle chain breaks is because of the wrong tension. If the chain is too loose, it can come out of alignment with the sprockets which will likely cause a jam.

Are bike chains worth fixing?

Anything at or beyond the 0.75 percent reading means that you should change your chain immediately. If you are using a chain designed for ten or fewer gears, replace your chain as it nears the 0.75 percent mark. If you are using an eleven or twelve speed chain, replace your chain once it has reached 0.5 percent wear.

Why are bike chains so expensive?

The main influences are the brand and quality of your chainring and rear cassette, not the chain. You need to ensure your chain is well maintained and not worn to make the most of the best drivetrains on the market. Buying an expensive chain will not improve shifting efficiency.

Is replacing a bike chain easy?

But it's difficult at best. And doing it by hand is extremely difficult as well.

How do I know if I need a new bike chain?

If you are using an 11 or 12 speed chain replace your chain once it is reach point five percent wear and for two sprocket or single speed bikes replace your chain when it has reached 1% wear.

How do I buy a bike chain?

When selecting a chain, the first consideration is the number of rear sprockets. The rear cog sets have been made with 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, or 12 sprockets. As the number of cogs on the rear hub increases, the spacing between cogs tends to be reduced.