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(10-12-2020, 02:08 AM)pekingduck_imp Wrote: (10-12-2020, 12:09 AM)DAC_imp Wrote: Does Honda make chains? As above, looks like oem is DID. The issue is probably more important for the sprockets. Coming up on 30k and was just thinking I’d buy DID chain and oem sprockets.
Honda uses different suppliers. Among them are DID and RK for chains, and Sunstar for sprockets and discs. However, there are different spec and quality levels within each brand. A batch of product may meet specs, but at the lower end of the spectrum.
Because the CB1100 is a Japan-assembled bike, a source of particular pride, higher levels are usually specified. Honda owns and oversees their assembly plants in different countries, but they must often yield to local management. Japan standards and expectations are higher.
Honda uses different suppliers. Among them are DID and RK for chains, and Sunstar for sprockets and discs. However, there are different spec and quality levels within each brand. A batch of product may meet specs, but at the lower end of the spectrum.
Because the CB1100 is a Japan-assembled bike, a source of particular pride, higher levels are usually specified. Honda owns and oversees their assembly plants in different countries, but they must often yield to local management. Japan standards and expectations are higher.
...and this is why I like Honda products and its Q U A L I T Y /Made in Japan.
Not to go political or anything like that the best automotive quality/assembly comes from Japan, S-Korea, Europe..in that order, and you may disagree with it....
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Before ordering an OEM chain (with a Honda part number), I'd verify with your Honda parts guy that the chain has a master link. The DID or RK chains that come on the new bike do not, which is good and bad. Good, in that all the links are made with the same pins (no rivet to possibly fail if staked incorrectly) but BAD in that in order to replace it, you'd have to remove your swingarm to get it around the countershaft sprocket.
I'd go with OEM sprockets and a high-end DID or RK chain (with rivet master link).
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When I ordered my DID chain from Sprocket Center in CA I did order an extra master link incase I messed one up but never needed it as I used the proper DID tool to brake and connect the chain. Having the right tool for any job is money well spend.
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All my bikes I used OEM chains (when not using shaft drive) and sprockets. No complaints. Never premature wear and never experienced failure.
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When I put a new chain and sprockets on, I first count and compare the number of links to be sure, then install the rivet-style master link on the new chain when it's on the bench. I assemble it, peen it over with a hammer, stake it with a chisel.
Putting an endless chain on just means pulling a shock bolt loose and slipping the swingarm pivot bolt out, really not a hard job. But if you're not changing front sprocket I can see how it would be easier threading it through and then riveting it.
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In the DID instructions for their chain tool they give you the right measurement for peening over the rivet , check with a micrometer and you be safe.
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Thank you everyone for your knowledge ! I decided to go with the stock oem sprocket and chain replacements. After that, on to getting "a real valve adjustment" with shims and everything (VS just a valve clearance check
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(10-12-2020, 08:06 AM)GoldOxide_imp Wrote: All my bikes I used OEM chains (when not using shaft drive) and sprockets. No complaints. Never premature wear and never experienced failure.
In my old bikes, I used to buy OEM sprockets, but would play around with going up/down 1 tooth on the front, or up/down 3 to 5 teeth on the rear. When I used to race my little 100cc Suzuki on the flat track we had in the clay pits in Florida, I always carried in my tool bag a one tooth smaller front sprocket I could change out in about 10 minutes or less in case some one wanted to race. I never let them see why I had to go away a few minutes to relieve myself before the race. I beat a few 250CC Savages, remember those, on our small track because I could run almost wide open in second. Boy what memories just talking about changing chains and sprockets brings back. Thanks!
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For all of you who like to experiment with gearing, I ran across this "sprocket calculator" web site. I have no clue if they accurate calcs, but was interesting to see net speed changes.
https://sprocketcalculator.com/bike-hond...-2014-2018
