Im planning to replace my chain and I'm wondering if it's time to replace my sprocket also here's a picture or 2
. The rust you see is from the chain not the sprocket itself. Thanks for the input

NEWBIE

Sprocket looks ok to me. Just make sure there are no chipped/missing teeth and that all teeth have the same amount of wear. Also make sure you clean the rusty goo off before installing the new chain. You can use WD-40 if it doesnt come off easily.

Probably a silly question but is it possible to replace a chain without a chain tool ?

NEWBIE

Depends. If it has a clip type masterlink, yes. If not, you'll need a chain tool.

...or some other more violent method 

You mean this right?

NEWBIE

That is a riveted style master link. If you are not hurting for money, I would just go buy the chain breaker/riviter kit from harbor freight, I think it is like 30 bucks maybe? Or ask your friends who ride/do mechanical things if they have one. Once you get the tool just do it yourself, it is pretty self explanatory. You really shouldnt do it without a tool. It can be done, but the proper way is always the best, especially if it is your first time. Hell, a shop would do it for like an hours worth of labor.


**EDIT**

Looks kind of like a clip type master link, but I see no clip? Lol dont need a tool for a clip style master link. Clip style will have these parts plus your orings:

I do have the one in your picture. Not hurting for money so I will get the kit because I just remembered I have to remove some links from my new D.I.D chain it has 120 links instead of 110 links like it should

NEWBIE

Good choice on getting the tool. Also, if you are reallllly not hurting for money, I would get a rivet style link ~$15 (will probably cause some smoke to come out of some peoples ears here)  because they are stronger than the clip type. Yes I SAID it! Clip style master links are usually used for dirt bikes, when chains are often taken on and off. Nothing wrong with them, and there are plenty of instances where street bike or even racers use them for a long time and have no problems, I am just very superstitious. On another note, be very careful when removing links so that you do not remove one too many links. This will cause a major headache.

I've had a clip style chain for about 15k kilometres now. No problems though I think it's starting to slack. Might need a new one soon.


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I've only used clip style master links for 150k of my GS500 miles.  They're no problem if you get the clips on right.  Not every one agrees on this.

I come from a family of lifelong bikers and pro racers (I'm obviously not one of them lol), and they all tell me the same thing: the GS doesn't make enough power to warrant the rivet-style masterlink.  Slap the clip on there.

Thus doth the clipVrivet worm infect yet another thread....

I'm unclear as to why motorcycle chain quick links can't use the same closed-end plate as bicycle type quick links.

I don't think it's apt to say the rivet is "stronger" than the clip. The plates take the stress. The issue is with with the clip coming off and the link coming out. (not that I'm an engineer or anything)

If you want to maintain the easy on/off with added security, add some safety wire to your clip-type application.

(search box or preferred search engine for explanation)

The more you are willing to fuss over and check things before the ride and be a glorious, cheapo DIYer -> roller type chain, clip type master

The less you want to think about and the less often you like doing maintenance -> (insert alphabet)-ring, endless chain made of fanciest, exotickest, least-rustable material available

I just want a belt kit so we can be done with the debate.

Well, THIS debate.

I think the clip vs rivet debate is kinda along the lines of an oil thread, use what gives you the most piece of mind and call it good