New 18/34 sprokets, What length chain?

[Greenmachine]

I'm putting on 18t front and 34t rear sprockets, Can anyone tell me how many link chain I need? Bike is 81model with 16inch rear wheel. And I'm assuming 520 chain?

 

[NONclow]

530 pitch, 104 link, 17F/32R gearing is stock. +1 in front, and +2 in back, I'd get 108 link and a half link (just in case), you may be able to use 106, but the wheel/axle may be quite far forward in the swingarm, hence the half link. I would also verify the thickness of the sprockets are 1/4" thick (520), or 3/8" thick (530).

 

[fredintoon]

I'm putting on 18t front and 34t rear sprockets, Can anyone tell me how many link chain I need? Bike is 81model with 16inch rear wheel. And I'm assuming 520 chain?

Hi Greenmachine,
Clymer's sez stock sprockets & chain are 17T/34T/104 links of #530.
You can get aftermarket sprockets & chain to swap to #520.
IMHO
Don't go to 18T front, the chain will gnaw at your shifter shaft and you'll get just about the same gearing with 17T/33T.
Don't swap to #520 sprockets & chain, the longevity/cost ratio ain't as good and the weight saving is neglegeable.

 

[jd750ace]

Never seen half links for motorcycle chain, or any instance in which a whole link change one way or the other could not solve a fitment issue. 106 links should be just fine for adding a single measly tooth on the front. It's not like it's an inch larger in diameter. Plus one on the "eat up the shifter shaft" thing too.

 

[fredintoon]

Never seen half links for motorcycle chain, - - -

Hi ace,
Gawd, you kids shoulda been around in the 1950s.
Everyone who rode back then carried a little can of Renold Chain Spares.
Had 2 master links, an inner/outer/inner joining link and a half-link in it.
Worked like magic, the chain never broke unless you left the can at home.

 

[jd750ace]

My PARENTS were kids in the 50's. seen them for farm equipment, but not bike chains. I'm a snot nosed 45 year old! LOL

 

[Greenmachine]

Awesome, Thanks to all for your help