Chains

How to Choose the Right Chain from 24MX

Riding on the dirt is an incredibly tough workout. If you think it's hard on the rider, imagine how much stress it puts on a dirt bike, particularly its chain. 24MX has a comprehensive selection of motocross chains, so whether you go basic or heavy-duty, you are sure to discover one that's right for your dirt bike. Dirt bikes are all about instant power. For this reason, the immediate transfer of power to the back wheel comes down to the drive chain. Choosing the most suitable motocross chain is the key to success. To help with the selection process, let's look at the different types of chains.

Chain Types

Amongst 24MX's incredible range of motorbike chains, you'll find two types; roller and sealed. The roller chain, although made from an incredible number of moving parts, is relatively simple. A motocross chain using high-tensile steel links and rivets is easy to produce and incredibly tough. There is a downside to this chain type in that it depends entirely on regular maintenance to keep it running correctly. Neglect the roller chain's needs and dirt will grind the moving parts down, accelerating wear.

The alternative to the roller chain is the sealed chain. This type of motorbike chain has grease forced between the moving parts, which is sealed in place by a tiny gasket known as an O, X, U, or W-ring. The different letters represent the ring's shape. The O-ring is the most common. Meanwhile, the W-ring provides six contact points to seal in the lubricant. Many believe this chain type is maintenance-free. While a sealed chain can offer an extended shelf life of 30-100 percent compared to the roller chain, they still require some maintenance to keep them in top condition.

The sealed chain is, without a doubt, a superior product in terms of longevity. However, the more complicated production process means it will cost more than the equivalent roller chain. Does this information mean it's a hands-down win for the sealed chain? Not necessarily. Roller chains are simple, good value, and effective. The roller chain is made from incredibly strong steel alloys and pre-stressed to provide maximum performance at the twist of a wrist. For novice dirt riders, these chains are great value for money. Meanwhile, pro-racers use top-of-the-range non-sealed chains for their bulletproof reliability and simplicity. Don't give up on sealed chains just yet, though. They require only basic maintenance and last twice as long. This chain is for you if you prefer spending time in the saddle rather than out of it kneeling on the workshop floor.

Safety in Numbers

You will find a series of numbers on the box of every motocross chain. Meanwhile, the description may give figures relating to tensile strength. However, the two most interesting numbers relate to the pitch and the number of links. Sizes such as 415, 428, and 520 appear frequently and relate to the chain's size (or pitch). For instance, the first number in a 520 chain refers to the distance between the pins and is in 1/8s".

The second two numbers relate to the roller width. So, a 520 chain has a 5/8" pitch and a ¼" roller. Check out the owner's motorcycle manual if you need any information about your chain size. Alternatively, use 24MX's drop-down menu to get the right fit for your motorcycle's make and model. The second set of numbers often refers to the links. This value is the number of links needed for the chain to wrap around both stock sprockets and join together.

Colour Options

You will notice some chains are black while others are gold, silver, green, red, orange, yellow, or blue. A coloured finish can protect against surface rust. It also means you can choose a coloured chain that matches the stock colour of your bike to show off your ride. You can rely on 24MX to offer competitive prices for motocross chains, whatever colour you choose.