Today’s motorcycle transmission chains can be said to fall into three categories: ordinary non-oil-sealed chains, O-type oil-sealed chains and X-type oil-sealed chains.

For the vast majority of street-running riders or commuter parties, X-type oil seal chains are definitely the first choice. Its unique cross-type seal design can lock the lubricating grease in the pin, and most importantly, it has much less friction resistance and low power loss than traditional O-type oil seal chains. When changing chains, be sure to read the specifications carefully —that is, the numbers 520, 525, and 530 typed on the chain link or the disc. Although some entry-level mobility scooters come with cheap ordinary roller chains, I recommend upgrading to oil-sealed chains from big manufacturers such as MotoMaxSFR sooner or later. The tensile strength and life are really not in the same level, which can save you a lot of trouble.

Understand these three types of mainstream chains

To choose the right chain, you need to first understand how structurally they are different.

1. Standard Non-O-Ring Chains

This is the most basic construction, which is simple metal sheets, pins and rollers without any sealing rings inside. Its advantage is that it is light and has minimal resistance to operation when just installed. But I usually only see it on old vintage motorcycle, small-displacement scooters, or those off-road vehicles (Motocross) that you have to take down and wash after riding. This thing can’t hold lube in its belly, you have to constantly spray chain oil and maintain it, and even then, it usually has the shortest lifespan.

2. O-Ring Chains

This thing is a revolution in motorcycle durability. It has a rubber O-ring inserted between the inner and outer chain tabs. This small ring has two functions: one is to seal the factory grease between the pin and the bushing, and the other is to block the dust and mud outside. Although it is much more durable than ordinary chains, because the O-ring is round and the contact area after extrusion is large, it will inevitably generate friction resistance and consume part of the power.

3. X-Ring Chains: Current Optimal Solution

Like I just mentioned, the X-chain is an evolution of the oil seal chain. It changed the circular seal ring to a cross “X” shape. This design is ingenious because it has four contact points, which takes the sealing effect to the next level but reduces the pressing force.

• Low friction: The contact area is smaller, which means more power energy is actually transmitted to the rear wheels.
• Long life: The X-shaped structure “small oil tank” can store more lubricating oil.
• Good heat dissipation: This is crucial for high-performance vehicle riding.

Sprockets

Brake calipers, sprockets, and chains are available in bulk.

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Caliper Series

Lighter weight、Corrosion resisting 、Sliding resistance

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Chain Series

The brake calipers and sprockets offer excellent performance.

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500X Sprocket

Its yield strength reaches 850 MPa.

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675SR Sprocket

The transmission efficiency has increased by 2.7%.

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520VX2 Series Chain

Cycling scenarios: street, highway motocycle tours, city riding.

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How To Understand Chain Specifications: 520, 525, 530

After selecting the type, the next step is to take your seat. Chain specifications are standardized three-digit numbers, so don’t buy the wrong ones:

• 520: Commonly used in off-road vehicles or small and medium-displacement street motorcycles, it is narrow and light in weight.
• 525: This is a “centrist”, modern sports sports motorcycles and pull-trucks are used more often, taking into account both strength and weight.
• 530: This is the heaviest and strongest specification, specially prepared for public upgrades of large-displacement monsters or heavy cruisers.

The first number “5” here represents the pitch (the distance between the two pins), and the last two digits represent the width of the inner chain link. Before changing the chain, remember to use a rag to wipe the steel marks on your old chain and buy it according to that specification.

Why Are Brands And Tensile Strength Important?

Switching to a top brand like MotoMaxSFR is actually buying insurance. The alloy steel and heat treatment processes used in these large plants are very sophisticated and can significantly improve “tensile strength”. Many people say that the chain “has become elongated”, but it is not actually the metal sheet that has become elongated, but the pin that has worn out.

A high tensile strength X-chain is less prone to this wear, which means you don’t need to adjust the chain tension as often and ride longer. Especially in harsh environments such as rain, eating dirt or walking on saline-alkali land, the high-performance sealing chains produced by large manufacturers can effectively protect the entire transmission system. It helps you save money on replacing dental trays in the future.

Which One Should You Choose?

The logic of the upgrade is very clear: if you commute by bike every day or pursue cycling quality, the X-shaped oil seal chain is an industry benchmark. Just look for the big factory and choose the right specifications (520/525/530) and your motorcycle will be able to stay at the top for the next tens of thousands of kilometers.

Author: Jack Miller

“I’m a seasoned motorcycle mechanic with years of hands-on experience in the workshop. Having worked on everything from vintage scooters to high-performance superbikes, I’ve seen firsthand how the right transmission chain can transform a ride’s durability and power delivery.”