How to Add Links to a 530 O-Ring Motorcycle Chain

Adding links to your 530 O-ring chain requires special tools.

Adding links to a 530 O-ring motorcycle chain can save the cost of a new chain when you install a larger rear sprocket. Some riders keep spare chain, a chain-breaking tool, chain-press and chain-riveter in the workshop. It is possible to cut links of chain by grinding the heads of the rivets and punching them out with a hammer and steel punch. In most cases, this takes more time and trouble than enlisting a few minutes of experienced help from a motorcycle shop. You add links to a 530 O-ring motorcycle chain while the existing chain is still looped around the front sprocket and the larger sprocket is installed on the rear wheel.

Things You'll Need

• Master link
• Pliers

Instructions

1. Park the motorcycle on its center stand or a repair stand to elevate the rear wheel off the floor. Put the transmission in "Neutral" so the front sprocket can rotate. Use wood blocks under the frame of the motorcycle to elevate the rear wheel when a center stand or repair stand is not available.

2. Position the existing chain on the front sprocket and pull the ends onto the upper and lower edges of the rear sprocket. Count the number of links that need to be added by counting the open teeth on the rear sprocket. Remove the chain from the sprockets.

3. Take the chain to a motorcycle shop. Ask the shop to add the number of links needed to your chain. The shop uses chain tools to add a section to one end of your chain, press the rivets and cut the section to length. Your longer chain now has uniform, open links at each end to receive a master link.

4. Loop the mid-section of your chain over the front sprocket on the motorcycle. Pull the upper and lower ends of the chain together at the rear sprocket. Make sure both ends of the chain are set fully into the sprocket teeth.

5. Hold the ends of the chain in place on the rear sprocket with one hand. Insert the pins of a master link into the open ends of the chain from the back side. Push the master link fully into the chain so it is firmly against the back side of the chain.

6. Press one finger against the back of the master link to hold it in place. Put the provided bridge connector on the outer ends of the pins.

7. Position the provided master link clip on the pins, making sure the forks of the clip are facing the rear of the motorcycle. Snap the clip into the slots on the master link pins using pliers.

Tips & Warnings

• Lubricate your motorcycle chain regularly with chain lube.

• The round end of the master link clip must be toward the direction of travel. Do not install the clip backwards.

References

• Dan's Motorcycle: Rear Chain and Sprockets
• Yamaha FZ1: Joek's Chain Breaking Basics; Joe Kagerer; Aug. 2007
• Hello Trade.com: Motorcycle Chains, O-ring Motorcycle Chains, X-ring Motorcycle Chains, Timing Chains