Stock Chain on '02 KDX

[cheska4]

I picked up an '02 KDX 200 about a month ago and have put about 200 miles on it so far. Great bike for my riding ability-added the standard guards and so forth---my complaint is the stock chain. I lubricate the chain religiously and always maintain proper tension. I've had to make four adjustments so far. I'm on the sixth position on the snail adjusters and run a consistent 2.7" between the swing arm and chain. I realize that the 200 gets the non-O-ring chain from the factory, but is this amount of stretch normal? Can anyone help me choose an O-ring replacement? Any help would be appreciated. This site has tons of great info. Thanks to all.

 

[kciH]

The stock chains wear out pretty quickly, they are typically junk. My stock 426 chain lasted about 5 rides with rigorous cleaning. I got a DID X-Ring chain and talon sprockets. The chain was adjusted once after the first ride and has required no further adjustment in the last 5 to date. Be ready to curse when installing one of these, the master link can be tough to get on. I don't know if they're all that way but the one I had gave me fits. Don't forget to order and extra master link to keep handy when you order the new chain.

 

[KelvinKDX]

I concure.

D.I.D. 520VM X-Ring chain (108 links for stock KDX200/220 sprockets). I use Sunstar sprockets as they have always given me excellent results.

I keep waiting for the chain to wear out. It just seems to keep going and going. :cool:

 

[TheGrinch]

My 2000 model came with an O-ring chain. I've had no problems.

 

[stinx]

I also have a 02 KDX 200. aftr my first break in ride i got rid of the stock chain and put on a RK o-ring chain. I have not yet had to adjust the new chain, I had two adjust the stocker before finishing my first ride.

 

[canyncarvr]

Xring chains work great. That based on 'imo'. My last one has been on for just about 2 years...still have adjustment to go. No, it's not perfect..has worn some (chains don't 'stretch'), and I could use a new one now. Still, for riding most every weekend, a couple of years is great!

The stock chain is a joke ('00 200. Not o-ring. If grinch lived in the US and his '00 200 came with one, someone had changed it already. But, hey!!!..non-US guys get the 'A' cylinders, too!!)

If you change the chain soon enough (like immediately) you won't have to buy new sprockets in a couple of months.