Adding A Chain Link

[o1racing03]

I know how easy it is to shorten a chain by cutting off a link but has anyone seen an add a link to a chain. My chain is brand new and will probably be 1 or 2 links short for the wheel/swing arm combo I am running. Does anyone make a chain lengthening link. Or would I just use a female link and 2 master links? Would it be safe and not lose strength of the chain using 2 master links?

[panhead_pete]

Id be doing as you suggested, just make sure all master links are set the right way with the full part of the locking part facing in the direction the chain travels. You may already know that but I've seen them the wrong way often enough to mention it.

[sugarlou]

I think you can run 2 masters. I guess if you are a hole shot type (01racing?!!!!) you may be running more risk of losing one though. Keep one in your tool pouch.

[o1racing03]

Originally Posted by panhead_pete

Id be doing as you suggested, just make sure all master links are set the right way with the full part of the locking part facing in the direction the chain travels. You may already know that but I've seen them the wrong way often enough to mention it.

I don't use clip-on links, I use the swedged ones so it shouldn't make a difference should it? I don't plan on hole shots as my launches will be feathered and not drag strip launches.

[o1racing03]

Originally Posted by Dragstews

I would be buying a new chain...
By adding another master link is just one more place that can fail...

But that's me.....You do whatca want.....

Say...have you ever seen what a wadded chain, on a Sporty, does to the cases and cam cover...???

Due to the lack of clearance at the front of my modified swing arm I have to pull the wheel back to almost it's furthest position. I'm not sure my existing chain will be long enough and I'm looking at my options. But as long as you are going to buy this broke SOB a new I'll just do that. The swedged on links make them just another link and not susceptible to fail as you suggest.

[Loffer]

There's the double master link with an added inner link for just such occasions. Actually its a half link with a pin and cotter pin . Then the master.

[Racepres]

The one thing I would Never use is a half link.
YMMV
RP

[o1racing03]

Yes I have seen what a broken chain can do.I saw this on CraigsList today searching for XLCH's in my area. I just happen to notice the big hole under the tranny in this box of spare parts that came with the bike. Didn't know if it was from chain or blown tranny (most likely)It would make me ask a whole lot of questions before swapping any money


I t also reminds me of watching the burnout contest at last years Hawg Halters Spring Fling. Have you ever seen what a steel cord tire will do to your leg when it shreds itself apart while your standing there spread eagle over it.

[o1racing03]

Originally Posted by Racepres

The one thing I would Never use is a half link.
YMMV
RP

No such thing.

[Loffer]

Masters , half links its a crap Shoot. I safety wire anything that's not pressed togther

[o1racing03]

Originally Posted by Loffer

There's the double master link with an added inner link for just such occasions. Actually its a half link with a pin and cotter pin . Then the master.

Where?

[Hoofhearted]

If you are using riveted master links there should be no problem. When you think about it the whole chain is made up from riveted links.

[o1racing03]

Originally Posted by Hoofhearted

If you are using riveted master links there should be no problem. When you think about it the whole chain is made up from riveted links.

My point exactly. I was just looking for second opinions from experience.

[Hoofhearted]

A small addendum. Over the years, in racing applications, I have used two clip type master links and half links on primary and rear chains in racing applications without failure. I've only ever had one master link fail over the years. One failure in almost 50 years is something I can accept. Cheaping out and buying crap chain is when you will get headaches.

[o1racing03]

I'm running a chrome DID 530 "0" ring chain.

[Loffer]

Originally Posted by Hoofhearted

A small addendum. Over the years, in racing applications, I have used two clip type master links and half links on primary and rear chains in racing applications without failure. I've only ever had one master link fail over the years. One failure in almost 50 years is something I can accept. Cheaping out and buying crap chain is when you will get headaches.

I have more confidence in a half link than a master. Never lost a half link yet. I only use them on little bikes anyway anythng over 40hp l'm going for press fit. https://www.denniskirk.com/520-stand...it.p113131.prd

[o1racing03]

Originally Posted by Loffer

I have more confidence in a half link than a master. Never lost a half link yet. https://www.denniskirk.com/520-stand...it.p113131.prd

Does that use a cotter pin to hold the link together? That sounds scary. I think this is what I would rather use with my swedged links:
https://www.denniskirk.com/parts-unl...prd/113161.sku

[FMB42]

Your best bet is to buy the proper length chain. However, you should be able to obtain the roller links and "rivet" style master links (which are a form of "pin link") from just about any motorcycle shop (most shops will have some "leftover" sections of DID 530 chain with the roller link(s) you need).

Originally Posted by o1racing03

No such thing.

DID compatible "half-links" do exist (these are called "link and a half" kits). However, running such "half links" is not generally recommended on high powered motorcycles.

[o1racing03]

Originally Posted by FMB42

Your best bet is to buy the proper length chain. However, you should be able to obtain the roller links and "rivet" style master links (which are a form of "pin link") from just about any motorcycle shop (most shops will have some "leftover" sections of DID 530 chain with the roller link(s) you need).








DID compatible "half-links" do exist (these are called "link and a half" kits). However, running such "half links" is not generally recommended on high powered motorcycles.

Can you explain why if they are the rivit swedge on kind they would be any different than the rest of the chain in strength?
My first step would to be to find a small section of chain like you mention and just use 2 rivit masters on it.

[FMB42]

Originally Posted by o1racing03

Can you explain why if they are the rivit swedge on kind they would be any different than the rest of the chain in strength?
My first step would to be to find a small section of chain like you mention and just use 2 rivit masters on it.

If you're talking about half-links, they tend to stretch due to the bends in the plates and "straightening" a bend in steel tends to weaken it. This is not to mention that stretched chains can sometimes result in the chain climbing over the top of the sprocket teeth. This can have "catastrophic" results to both the bike and the rider. I agree that your "first step" is the best answer (short of buying a longer chain).