Warning this is probably a noob question but it's my first time dealing with this. I need to replace my chain before the this riding season starts. I read that stock my chain is a 530 chain. Can someone explain to me what that means? Also how do I know how many links my new chain should have? Does that all depend on the sprocket? I wasn't planning on replacing the sprocket because it doesn't look worn at all. I don't have tons of cash for this chain job and from what I'm seeing the less links the less money. Would I be fine with a 100 link chain? Sorry again for the super noob questions, thanks for any help guys!!!!

 

always replace your chain and sprockets at the same time that way all 3 have the same wear pattern. you can get away with only replacing one or teh other but its not always what is best for your bike.

as far as the explnation of the 530 chain i cant explain it to you so ill let someone else chime in

 

Yeah I know I "should" replace the sprockets as well but I really don't have the money right now. I really don't even have the money for the chain but I don't have a choice, the one I have is shot. Plus I have to buy a new rear tire as well (damn road debris). [:@]

 

You should really replace your chain & sprockets as a set, it will save you money in the long term. If your chain is shot, then the sprockets will be like wise. Installing chain only will quickly shorten its life as well. Often the wear can't be seen, the sprockets wear uniformly so to the eye they are all the same so you get the impression that all's ok.
Anyway for your other question: http://www.everything2.com/index.pl?node_id=1342594

 

This explains it pretty good.

http://www.z1enterprises.com/referen...ntypesize.aspx

But in your case, If you are replacing the chain/sprocketsI AM GUESSING you can probably go to a 525 or 520.

 

The '97 600F3 comes from the factory with a 525 pitch chain and sprocket set, front 15 teeth, rear 43 teeth. Total number of links is 108.

http://www.didchain.com/hondapage3.htm

Get the best chain you can, do some research, especially note the wear index figures. You'll be amazed at how much longer a quality chain will last over a cheapo. It only saves you money...

http://www.didchain.com/specs.htm


I'm not plugging DID per se, RK, EK, Tsubaki, all good too. If you can, buying online saves a bundle...you could even get a chain/sprocket set for less than just a chain in a stealership.

 

Great thanks alot guys for the answers!!! On a side note today is the nicest day we've had all year 55 degrees and sunny! But I can't ride with this ****ty chain and plugged tire. Anyone have any recommendations of online stores where I can get a new sprocket and chain set? Thanks again!