Chain conversion questions
Thread Starter
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Novice
Joined: Apr 2014
Posts: 22
Likes: 1
From: Eastern NC
Chain conversion questions
Hello, as you all can see, I have some questions about converting to chain drive.
I have an '02 Sporty 883 that was converted to a 1200. The drive belt snapped the other day, and has given me an excuse to finally do the chain drive conversion. I plan on stuffing a wider wheel (the HogPro Big Black Daddy looks nice, I'm thinking the 18"x4.25" rim) and tire back there anyways. My questions for you all are;
-How do I figure out the offset or spacer size I will need for the drive sprocket?
-What parts/manufacturer do you recommend?
-I was thinking 23 teeth up front, 48 rear. What do you think?
-I like the idea of limited maintenance with o-ring vs. non o-ring. Good and the bad?
I appreciate any helpful advice gentleman.
I have an '02 Sporty 883 that was converted to a 1200. The drive belt snapped the other day, and has given me an excuse to finally do the chain drive conversion. I plan on stuffing a wider wheel (the HogPro Big Black Daddy looks nice, I'm thinking the 18"x4.25" rim) and tire back there anyways. My questions for you all are;
-How do I figure out the offset or spacer size I will need for the drive sprocket?
-What parts/manufacturer do you recommend?
-I was thinking 23 teeth up front, 48 rear. What do you think?
-I like the idea of limited maintenance with o-ring vs. non o-ring. Good and the bad?
I appreciate any helpful advice gentleman.
HDF Community Team
Joined: Dec 2011
Posts: 8,483
Likes: 3,873
From: San Diego, CA
I think 23/48 is what a stock chain drive 1200 used to run. I'm running an RK X-ring chain on my '91 and it is very smooth. I highly recommend Bel Ray Super Clean Chain Lube, no fly off and no mess at all. I do not recommend PJ1 Black Chain Lube, it's a messy nightmare.
I believe my 883 runs a 21/48 sprocket, it came stock back then. Can't give you any advice on offsets.
John
I believe my 883 runs a 21/48 sprocket, it came stock back then. Can't give you any advice on offsets.
John
Thread Starter
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Novice
Joined: Apr 2014
Posts: 22
Likes: 1
From: Eastern NC
I went ahead and gave the guys at PBI a call. Rick and Jim were very helpful, and they show troops appreciation. It's also nice to know they're from Oregon, my home state. I'm glad to have done business with them.
How many links do I need for that RK X-Ring chain you think?
How many links do I need for that RK X-Ring chain you think?
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Road Master
Joined: Oct 2011
Posts: 1,167
Likes: 11
From: Belgium
I went to O- ring chain 6 month ago, there is no way back.
Pro's: it's waaaaay cheaper than a belt kit, transmission is as smooth as with belt, whatever other people may tell.
Con's: the bike is really greasy in the back, but the rear wheel doesn't rust anymore...
Pro's: it's waaaaay cheaper than a belt kit, transmission is as smooth as with belt, whatever other people may tell.
Con's: the bike is really greasy in the back, but the rear wheel doesn't rust anymore...
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HDF Community Team
Joined: Dec 2011
Posts: 8,483
Likes: 3,873
From: San Diego, CA
I went ahead and gave the guys at PBI a call. Rick and Jim were very helpful, and they show troops appreciation. It's also nice to know they're from Oregon, my home state. I'm glad to have don
e business with them.
How many links do I need for that RK X-Ring chain you think?
e business with them.
How many links do I need for that RK X-Ring chain you think?
Here's a great price on a 108:
Also, purchase a clip type connecting link for easy install and removal:
http://www.bikebandit.com/rk-530-xso...onnecting-link
John
Last edited by John Harper; Mar 28, 2025 at 08:57 PM.
HDF Community Team
Joined: Dec 2011
Posts: 8,483
Likes: 3,873
From: San Diego, CA
http://www.motorcycle-superstore.com...ean-chain-lube
John
Last edited by John Harper; Apr 19, 2014 at 01:00 PM.